I am fortunate to be a Chair of Governors at my local primary school. I visited Galmpton Church of England Primary school yesterday and was blown away by the impact of an ambitious curriculum and development of character education. In every classroom, children wanted to speak to me, to tell me with enthusiasm about their learning. They demonstrated great pride in their work, along with amazing oracy skills. I am so proud of this, as I know the journey the school has been on. In 2015 I became Executive Headteacher of the school, supported by the now Headteacher Katy Burns. At the time, the school was failing. Children were passive learners and teachers had not received quality professional development. The school looked unloved. The leadership team were frustrated and disempowered. Now the opposite is true. The children are excelling through a culture of high expectations and aspiration. Outcomes are impressive. Character and metacognition are carefully taught and nurtured within an inspiring curriculum. All this has been achieved through talented and determined leadership, building a culture of wellbeing and a 'can do' attitude. Staff overcome barriers to create a genuinely inclusive school. The school joined the Academies of Character and Excellence led by Cheryl Weyman a few years ago, and the trust has supported Katy and her team to bring about this transformation. Although I left the trust in 2022, it's so rewarding to return to the school in my new role as chair to see what aspiration, culture and determination can achieve. #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipcoaching #leadership
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