THE chief executive an academy trust was handed a pay rise of more than 50 per cent after taking over the reins at three schools.

Bev Williams, who heads the Legra Academy Trust, saw her salary rise from £94,388 to £150,000 in September 2015 when she took over responsibility for Cecil Jones Academy, in Eastern Avenue, Southend, and Darlinghurst Primary School, Pavilion Drive - in addition to Belfairs Academy, in Highlands Boulevard, Leigh.

Robin Marcus, chairman of the trust, said: “The trust makes decisions on senior staff salaries based on the level of responsibilities and accountabilities. The trust is clear about its responsibilities in prudently spending public funds and ensuring value for money.

“In the past 18 months, two schools - Cecil Jones, with 997 students, and Darlinghurst Primary School, with 682 children - have joined Belfairs Academy, which has 1,362 students.

“As a result, there has been a significant increase in responsibility and accountability for the chief executive. In total, 378 staff work within the trust, compared with 163 18 months ago. “

Mr Marcus added: “The contribution of Bev Williams in promoting excellence through visionary leadership cannot be underestimated. Her impact in carrying out the strategic vision of the trust with strength and vigour is clear to trustees, Ofsted, the Department for Education and the wider community.

“In fact, Ofsted visited Belfairs in December and wrote praising Mrs Williams and telling her she ‘leads the school with passion, clarity of mission and a vision to improve the lives of all your pupils.’

“We believe strong and effective leadership of multi-academy trusts is essential to achieve excellence for every child.”