Leehurst Swan School
Mandy Bateman became acting head in April 2022. She has been at the school since 2015 and was previously the deputy head, head of seniors and designated safeguarding lead. She will provide continuity and ongoing commitment so that every member of the Leehurst Swan community has the support and opportunity to ‘find their voice’ and be the best they can be. Mandy said: “I am passionate about education and, for me, the school’s aims are fundamental and at the heart of everything we do. My aim is to maintain continuity for the children, staff and parents while providing the leadership necessary to grow the school and its excellent reputation.”
St Mary’s School
St Mary’s has appointed Alex Brough as director of digital learning. Alex joins the team from Quinton House School, where he was director of digital learning and head of computing. At St Mary’s, Alex will be focusing on developing the use of technology to underpin and support the current teaching and learning at the school.
Alex has a first-class degree in Automotive Engineering and Motorsport and a PGCE. Alex said: “I firmly believe technology should always enhance and support learning and not replace it. I’m really excited for my journey at St Mary’s and to join such a great team of professionals.”
Beech House, Bolton School
Mrs Jo Field has been appointed as the new head of Infants School, Beech House. Jo has a degree in English Literature and undertook a Graduate Teaching Programme. She has also completed a number of professional courses including the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Jo said: “I am thrilled to be joining Bolton School as its new Primary Division begins to take shape… and I look forward to getting to know all the pupils, parents and staff. For me, the Early Years Foundation Stage is where all the magic begins… by starting correctly, we can guide children from an early age, ensuring the right foundations are laid.”
James Allen’s Girls’ School
Ms Victoria Goodson has been appointed as head of the Junior School from September 2022. Victoria will join JAGS at an exciting time as the school moves forwards with its strategic plan – developing the learning environment, championing a diverse and inclusive community and fulfilling its ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Victoria is a graduate of Durham University and holds a master’s in Education Leadership and Management.
Victoria said, “I am delighted to be joining as head of the Junior School and I am wholeheartedly committed to continuing the excellent work of the school in offering an inspiring, ambitious, and holistic education for all pupils.”
Conifers School
Conifers has welcomed Fiona Allan as their new reception class teacher. Fiona is a primary educator with a degree and a Primary PGCE from Exeter University – where she was awarded the Ted Wragg Award for being an Outstanding Teacher Trainee.
Fiona said: “I couldn’t have wished for a better start to my time at Conifers and I am thankful to all the staff and children who have given me such a warm welcome. My aim is to foster a love of learning and curiosity about the world by having a fun and focused classroom. I am passionate about ensuring that children are given the best start to their education, and I see the opportunity to develop those building blocks in Reception as a privilege.”
St. Hilda’s Prep School for Girls
Andy Kaye has been appointed by The Aldenham Foundation as the new head at St. Hilda’s Prep School for Girls to start this September.
Having joined St. Hilda’s in 2016 as deputy head, Andy Kaye is already familiar to everyone in the school community, putting him in a prime position to take on his new role as head from the start of the 2022–2023 academic year.
Kaye has been passionate about bringing fun and exploration to learning, helping young people be their happiest and most confident selves – and he looks forward to continuing this in his new position as the head of St. Hilda’s.
