School head in region earns more than PM

A YORKSHIRE headteacher has been revealed as one of seven outside of London who earns more than the Prime Minister.

An investigation into the salaries of school leaders has revealed Dr Kelvin Simmonds, the head of Danum School in Doncaster, received a salary package worth 152,224, which added up to 173,999 with his pension contribution.

The GMB union analysed figures from education authorities across the country to identify 17 headteachers across England paid more than David Cameron.

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The figures do not include the pay of principals at academies, who are expected to be among the highest earners in the state school sector.

Last night Ted Purcell, GMB public services officer, said: "It is outrageous that a headteacher in a local community school should earn more money than the Prime Minister."

The disclosure came days after it was revealed a London primary school head was being paid 270,000, sparking outrage fury among union leaders.

Danum School chairman of governors defended it paying Dr Simmonds more than 150,000.

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Eleanor Hamill said: "Dr Simmonds was appointed from a national field in 2003. The school originally offered a package in the region of 90,000 for a head but failed to appoint. It advertised again at a higher salary and was successful in appointing Dr Simmonds who was already an experienced, well paid, skilled and effective head in another authority."