When asked about his main priority as leader, Cllr John said: “The number one priority is ensuring children and young people have the best possible start in life.
“We only have one shot at our education that’s why we have invested tens of millions in our new school buildings.”
Cllr John also hailed the new schools in Caldicot and Monmouth as his biggest council achievement in the last four years as the cabinet member for education.
Speaking about his time in the role, Cllr John said: “We have made significant improvements in education standards and we’ve had very positive Estyn reports.