Mortimer Community College

Previously, the reputation of Mortimer Community College, a South Tyneside 11-16 comprehensive school, was one of poor behaviour. Although attainment was good, progress in many departments figured in the bottom 5% nationally. Mortimer was experiencing a significant budget deficit, along with substantial falling rolls, and only 53 first choice preferences were registered for incoming year 7 students, contributing to low staff morale. The start of 2017 saw a change in leadership: a new Headteacher, Simon Hignett, and Deputy Headteacher (Quality of Education), Joanne Thornton, were appointed, along with a new governing body.