Western Primary School in Harrogate has appointed a new Headteacher.
At the end of this academic year, the Western Primary School community will bid a fond farewell to their current Headteacher, Mr Tim Broad, as he retires to focus on new adventures.
And he will be replaced by Mrs Johanna Slack.
Commenting on her appointment, Mrs Slack said:
“I started a career in teaching due to my passion for helping others and wanting to support young people to understand their own unique gifts, grow them and feel proud of who they are.
“During my career in Education, I have had the wonderful opportunity to teach children from nursery through to year 6 and from this understand the specific needs of each age group and what we need to provide for them in order that all children reach their full potential.”
Mrs Slack was appointed following a robust recruitment process involving Trustees, Governors, Senior Leaders, parents and pupils.
She brings a wealth of experience leading both Local Authority and Academy schools and is the current Headteacher at Tang Hall Primary School in York, where she led a programme of rapid school improvement, recently achieving a successful Ofsted outcome.
She added:
“My leadership style is one that is open and nurturing. It is built from developing strong relationships with everyone in the school community which has mutual respect at its core.
“Joining Western Primary School will see me starting my third headship and I am looking forward to bringing to my new role a wide range of experiences, skills and knowledge which will support me and the team to continue the improvement journey to ensure all our children are getting the very best we have to offer.
“I feel very privileged to be the new headteacher of Western Primary School and I am looking forward to being part of its next chapter as we continue to create success stories for our children.”
Western Primary School is a founding member of Red Kite Learning Trust, a multi academy trust of 14 schools across North and West Yorkshire.
Trust CEO, Mr Richard Sheriff, said:
“We are indebted to Tim Broad for leading Western through some of the most challenging years any of us have faced.
“His constant, reassuring presence at the school during the Pandemic was a huge comfort to children and parents. He has led his wonderful team with skill and moral purpose, ensuring Western has become even stronger under his tenure.”
Director of Primary Education for Red Kite Learning Trust, Ms Amanda Thornton Jones said:
“I look forward to working with Mrs Slack and welcome her to Western Primary School.
"Jo brings a wealth of leadership and teaching experience and will be a huge asset to our Trust, the school, and its community.”
Mrs Slack will replace Mr Tim Broad, who became the acting Headteacher in January 2020 before his eventual appointment in 2021.
Prior to this, Mr Broad had worked as a teacher, phase leader and Deputy Head at the school since September 1999.
Speaking of his time at Western Primary School, Mr Broad said:
“I feel very proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to lead this fantastic school.
“I have very mixed emotions around the prospect of retirement but feel it is the right time for me, my family and the school.
“I have been lucky enough to work with some incredibly talented colleagues over many years, both at Western and within our Trust, and am grateful for their support and for their sustained contribution to our pursuit of excellence for our pupils and families.”
Mr Broad added:
“I am delighted that Mrs Slack will be taking on the role of Headteacher from September and I wish her, and everyone associated with the school, every success for the future.”
Since her appointment, Mrs Slack has been spending time at Western Primary School, working with the team and getting to know the children, to ensure a seamless transition for September 2024.
Council to introduce stricter light pollution rules in Nidderdale
Lidl seeks two new stores in Harrogate
Fundraiser launched to improve Harrogate rugby pitches
Full-size knitted tank to be unveiled in Ripon today
New roadworks to cause three weeks of school-run delays
Harrogate community groups invited to apply for share of £100,000 funding
Leeds Bradford Airport among best in country for delays
Rosé retreat returns to luxury hotel in Ripon
Harrogate College's £22m rebuild plans approved
Wetherby rugby team achieve historic promotion
Council has pumped almost 3,000 tonnes of grout into Ripon void
Banyan launches 'build your own bottomless' experience
Harrogate teacher training provider rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
Harrogate heart failure group celebrates first birthday
Everything you need to know ahead of Rudding ParkRace
Harrogate primary still 'outstanding' following Ofsted inspection
New oriental cafe opens in Harrogate
Harrogate man raises over £6,700 for Henshaws at London Marathon
Harrogate bar launches new drinks menu and 2-for-1 cocktails
Councillors approve late-night outdoor dining at Harrogate restaurant
