'Your impact will be felt for generations'- headteacher of Ashton Community Science College retires
A secondary school in Preston has said farewell to its “inspiring, compassionate, and steadfast” headteacher after more than a decade under her guidance.
Over the weekend, Ashton Community Science College revealed that its headteacher, Miss Sharon Asquith is retiring after 13 years in charge.
On Friday evening, the school posted a picture from a full school assembly alongside some touching words for their longstanding headteacher.
A spokesperson wrote: “Today we celebrate an incredible milestone — the retirement of our Headteacher, Miss Asquith
“After more than 20 years at Ashton Community Science College, including 13 years as Head, Miss Asquith leaves behind a truly remarkable legacy. She has dedicated her career to championing education, supporting our students, and ensuring every young person who walks through our doors is given the very best opportunities — both during their time with us and beyond.
“Over the years, she has seen thousands of students grow, achieve, and move on to bright futures. At the heart of everything she does has always been our school community — our students, our staff, and the belief that Ashton CSC should be “a school to be proud of.”
“Thanks to her tireless commitment, passion, and leadership, that vision has absolutely become a reality.
“She has been an inspiring, compassionate, and steadfast leader for staff, always putting people first and leading with integrity and care.Miss Asquith, thank you for everything you have given to Ashton CSC. Your impact will be felt for generations to come.
“We wish you all the very best as you begin this exciting new chapter — you’ve more than earned it.”
The role of headteacher at Ashton Community Science College was advertised online earlier this year.
Although Ashton’s recent social post suggests Miss Asquith has stepped down ahead of the Easter holidays, the job application did state that the new headteacher would not need to start until September 1 2026.
The job overview read: “The governors of Ashton Community Science College are seeking to appoint an inspirational Headteacher who has the vision and passion to further improve our school and continue the school’s work in making a difference to the life chances of its young people and community. The vacancy arises because our long-serving Headteacher is retiring.
“This is a unique opportunity to shape the direction of a school with a firmly established commitment to inclusion, achievement and ambition for all. We are the only school in Lancashire to have 2 specially designated units; one for deaf children and one for children with speech, language and communication needs, in addition to our mainstream provision. Inclusion lies at the heart of all we do. We firmly believe that all our students deserve the very best opportunities that school can provide within and beyond the taught curriculum and we strive to ensure every member of the school community can and should make their contribution to ensure we remain “a school to be proud of”.”
Applications closed on January 29 but the Post has not yet seen news of who is set to replace Miss Asquith.