THE PRINCIPAL of Okehampton College is taking over temporarily at the helm of Tavistock College.

Daryll Chapman will be a temporary replacement for principal Colin Eves. Reasons for his absence have not yet been given.

This arrangement will start when term resumes on Monday and in Mr Chapman's absence, Okehampton vice-principal Derrick Brett will be assuming the role of acting principal.

The chairman of governors at Tavistock College, Mandy Govier, said: 'I am delighted that Daryll has agreed to provide temporary leadership for Tavistock College and I know he will have the full support of staff, students, parents and governors.'

The chairman of governors at Okehampton College, Ian Courtney, said: 'Okehampton College is recognised as having outstanding leadership and management.

'Last month the Government highlighted Okehampton College as one of the 40 most improved schools in the country for our GCSE results over the past four years.

'The governors agreed to release Daryll on a temporary basis to assist our neighbours at Tavistock College because we are confident that, in his absence, our excellent team at Okehampton College will step up to the plate and ensure our drive to provide the best possible education for all our students remains unabated.'

Mr Eves joined Tavistock College in September 2005. In an interview with the Times he said his primary aims were to help every child achieve the very best possible academic results and to have the opportunities to develop the essential qualities and skills for the workplace and their everyday lives.

During his time at Devon's third biggest college, Mr Eves, 50, has been a key player in the development of £3-million of community sports facilities at the school.

But despite good exam results over the past two years the college was given a notice to improve by Ofsted inspectors.

The college is currently awaiting the results of the latest Ofsted inspection in January.