Dear Parents, Carers and Colleagues.

I have written many letters home to parents/carers and colleagues in the past 11 years, but this is without doubt the most difficult of them all. It is with great sadness that I inform you I will not be returning as Headteacher of STEPS and Sandwell Virtual School in January 2026. I am deeply saddened to be leaving; I can say with complete honesty that this has been the most rewarding role I have ever had the privilege to hold. Serving our children and adults, who are full of compassion and care, has been an honour that has touched me deeply and shaped me both personally and professionally.

I have so many things to be grateful for; not many Headteachers have the experience of having an entire staff team that they love working with. They have embraced my vision and work extremely hard to give the best they can for our communities. They make it a joy to come into work each day, and I will miss the strong sense of togetherness we have built. At times we have had our challenges, but with determination and calm we have managed to support each other and emerge stronger, always keeping each other and our children at the heart of every decision we make. I will truly miss you all.

Although I am sad to be leaving, I am excited about the future and the next chapter. To our children I say: don’t let anything stop you from chasing your dreams, and to the staff and colleagues I have been so fortunate to work with, may you continue to grow, flourish and inspire everyone you serve. I will miss you all.

Balwant Bains

Executive Headteacher

Sandwell Virtual School and STEPS