The head teacher of a boys' grammar school says she is leaving her post to concentrate on her "own career development".

In an email sent to parents earlier this week, Norton Knatchbull in Ashford revealed head teacher Susanne Staab will be leaving at Christmas.

Ms Staab, who has been in the position for eight years, says becoming a head teacher at another school is not out of the question.

She said: "Having led the school successfully for the past eight years, and having steered it through the challenges of a rapidly changing education system, I now feel that the time has come for me to focus on my own career development.

"Education has experienced a turbulent time, including massive funding cuts three years ago and I could have left then but I stayed to steady the school.

"It's not been a sudden decision but the time has now come to develop my own career further.

'I'm confident the school is moving in the right direction and now I feel confident that I can leave...' - Susanne Staab

"I'm confident the school is moving in the right direction and now I feel confident that I can leave.

"I am very proud to have made such a positive mark on the school and to be a part of its long history."

When asked about her plans for the future, Mrs Staab says nothing is set yet.

"I'm in a fortunate position where I can take the time to consider my next steps carefully," she added.

"I've not firmed up my plans entirely, but I will never stray far from education, which is my greatest passion.

"I also love the Norton Knatchbull School and will continue to take a keen interest in its development."

Deputy head Sue Kelly will act as head teacher after Christmas while the school's governors search for a new head to join the school in Easter 2019.

The role is now being advertised and the closing date for applications is November 2.