I WAS astonished to read the letters belittling the achievements of David Fawbert and his team at The Chase high school (Your Letters, July 26). The record needs to be amended.

David Fawbert and his team have sought to "encourage and reward excellence of every kind, to enable all pupils to achieve their full potential... and to stress the importance of caring independence". They set high targets and have shown what a well lead and managed state school can achieve.

This has been reflected in the many awards the school has won, including excellent OFSTED reports. The latest report stated "this is a very effective school ... particularly in the sixth form".

I am sure all parents will join me in thanking the team at The Chase for their hard work and ethos of continuous improvement for the benefit of all pupils. A recent survey indicated that Malvern was one of the best places to live in the country and an important factor was the quality of local education.

As we wish David Fawbert a well-earned retirement, another key member of the winning team at the Chase is moving on. Aydin Onac, whose energy, skill and determination was given over a wide range of areas from music to leadership of the sixth form, is to become the head of a large school nearby. His contribution has also been significant and is much appreciated by pupils and parents.

I am sure the new head of The Chase will aim to further improve the school and build on the improvements already made, which are so valued by the community of Malvern.

PAUL TUTHILL, Lower Howsell Road, Malvern.