Joining The Farnley Academy as a new member of staff in September was a very exciting opportunity and one that I felt extremely grateful for. The schools exceptional reputation is one that speaks for itself, and within my first few weeks it became apparent why. The Farnley Academy is a very special place, and in comparison to other schools there truly is nothing else like it. Students actually really enjoy coming to school because they get The Farnley Academy Experience, showing excitement when entering the gates on a morning, something I have never witnessed before. In my first few weeks it was easy to see why the school is thought so highly of both locally and nationally. Working alongside and leading the incredible PE team, really helped to facilitate a smooth transition into the school and made me feel welcome immediately. Something that stood out to me from day one was how hard staff work to ensure that each and every one of the students make outstanding progress in their lessons. Within one term I was fortunate enough be offered the position of Assistant Principal. During my short time in the role I have already gained masses of experience and feel very privileged to join such an incredible SLT.
One aspect of the school that I am absolutely amazed by is the rewards system. The Christmas market rewards event was unbelievable and was very well received by the students. The full size carousel and German Market stalls allowed those 100% attendance students to finish for Christmas on a really positive and exciting note. Along with this, the house system is also a fantastic way of rewarding students and they are all keen to earn house tokens to reach that line in the collector, which again rewards them with fantastic prizes.
Joining the SLT at TFA has opened my eyes to a whole new world in terms of school leadership and it’s a great honour to be able to work with staff who are hugely experienced and strive every day to make the school the best it possibly can be. As Assistant principal for Inclusion I have gained a real insight into the support that our students are offered on a daily basis.
I am excited to take on new challenges, to learn from outstanding and supportive colleagues and, most importantly, to help encourage and nurture our students to be the best they can possibly be both academically and holistically.