When headteacher Melanie Mills got a job at a bigger school, children and staff resigned themselves to losing her. And while Mrs Mills thought she would have to say goodbye to colleagues and children she had grown fond of, things did not turn out quite like that.

When headteacher Melanie Mills got a job at a bigger school, children and staff resigned themselves to losing her.

And while Mrs Mills thought she would have to say goodbye to colleagues and children she had grown fond of, things did not turn out quite like that.

Instead she is staying at Ravensmere Infants School in Beccles - but not because she has turned down the new job.

For the school is getting together with Albert Pye Primary a mile down the road - the very same one that had offered her a job.

From September, Mrs Mills will be headteacher of both schools, which are forming a federation.

It will mean they work more closely together to raise standards, and will mean that the transition from infant school to primary school will be easier for the children.

Maureen Andrew, chairwoman of governors at Ravensmere Infants, said: "When she came we realised what a good head we had got. I don't think it came as a surprise to anyone that she would move on to do a bigger job.

"This opportunity was unique in that Mrs Mills was going from one school to the other. That was what was so special about it, it was an opportunity that wasn't going to happen again.

"We are looking at it very positively. It is a really good move for both schools."

Mrs Mills said that the idea of a federation had come out of the governors' discussions about how to replace her.

"The more we thought about it, the more it seemed to make sense. The opportunity to work in the context of both schools is really exciting.

"I have got some cracking teachers to support me.

"Both schools already have high standards so we really see the federation as an opportunity for reaching new heights."

Albert Pye headteacher Barbara Newson said: "Our two schools have for some years worked very closely together. I am delighted that Mrs Mills has been appointed as my successor and the way in which this is proving a unique opportunity for all our children."