The president of the Parent Teacher Association at Prospect Primary School has defended the Department of Education’s consultation process over the transfer of its principal Shangri-La Durham Thompson.

Bermuda Parent Teacher Student Association has written to Government to complain that parents and teachers were not sufficiently consulted ahead of a string of planned principal switches.

But regarding Prospect Primary’s proposed change, Freedom Charles told The Royal Gazette: “My view is I am happy with the new principal Holly Richardson and I feel the right protocols were in place in terms of the transfer ­­— I feel I was consulted adequately.

“There is always need for change and the current principal was ordered a post at the Ministry in the arts department so hopefully the arts department will come up to how it should be.

“I feel that Holly Richardson will be great for the school and will help it to move forward — she is very positive and has some good ideas.

“I believe she will bring something new to the school.”

In his letter to the Department, BPTSA chairman Harry Matthie said that Government came “nothing near” to providing the level of consultation it is required before making decisions on personnel transfers. Ms Charles said she had seen an e-mail that had been circulating around the PTAs, and there was a mixed reaction over the level of consultation.

Meanwhile yesterday, former Berkeley Institute acting principal Keisha Douglas was named as the new principal of Clearwater Middle School.

The appointment is one of up to six transfers at the school including the vice principal.

The Department of Education also confirmed the appointment of Tina Duke as principal at Dellwood Middle School. In making the announcement, acting commissioner of education Freddie Evans said: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of these two exceptional and experienced professionals.

“Mrs Duke and Ms Douglas have both served as deputy and acting principals in both senior and middle schools.

“They are dedicated educators who are very passionate about ensuring our students receive a quality education. In highlighting their appointment, it should be noted that both have worked in our public schools since returning to Bermuda with teaching degrees. They have demonstrated their commitment as educators in the public school system.”