A BELOVED headteacher is retiring after ten years as leader of the school.

Tracey Khodabandehloo ended her time at Queen's College on Wednesday, July 1, as the junior school finished what was left of the school year.

Henry Matthews has been chosen to take over the role from September.

Mrs Khodabandehloo had been headteacher of the junior school, pre-prep and nursery for the last ten years.

Born in Wellington, she went to Rockwell Green Primary School and then Court Fields Secondary Modern before going on to SCAT in Taunton for her A Levels.

Mrs Khodabandehloo joined Queen’s from Bishop Henderson Church of England School in Taunton where she had been head since 2003.

Prior to that, her first headship was at Trull Church of England School, which she joined in 1995.

Dr Lorraine Earps, headteacher of Queen’s College, paid tribute to Mrs Khodabandehloo.

She said: “I really wish the end to your time at Queen’s could have been calmer, less stressful and more celebratory.

“Thank you for everything you have done over your time with us.

“We will never forget you and you will for ever be linked to and part of our community.”

Mr Mark Edwards, chairman of governors, also praised Mrs Khodabandehloo.

He said: “She has been a dedicated member of the Queen’s family and has worked tirelessly to improve the school, its outcomes and what it can deliver for the children.

“She is hugely respected by staff and loved by the children and many will have fond memories of their headmistress.

the various junior and pre-prep ‘bubbles’ at Queen’s staged a surprise farewell to Mrs Khodabandehloo on the penultimate day of term.

She said afterwards: “Queen’s is a wonderful community which will always hold a place close to my heart and has left me with many happy memories.”