Batley heads chosen to help struggling schools

Janet Lunn of Field Lane Junior, Infant and Nursery School, and Ian Richardson, of Batley Parish Junior, Infant and Nursery School, are two of 96 head teachers selected to become National Leaders of Education (NLE).

The heads will be inducted at the National College for Teaching and Leadership’s learning and conference centre in Nottingham for training in October.

NLEs are chosen, along with the staff in their school – designated a National Support School – to provide additional leadership in struggling schools or schools making the transition to federation or academy status.

Each school is given tailored help and NLEs sometimes become acting or executive headteachers as part of the support package, while established NLEs help develop the next generation of leaders and support schools.

Mr Richardson said the role was testimony to the hard work of his staff and pupils at Batley Parish.

He said: “The successful collaboration of Batley and Birstall schools has enabled us all to move forward at a rapid pace because of our mutual respect and common purpose.”

Ms Lunn said the appointment was a privilege.

She said: “Our school has a long standing commitment to developing and supporting everyone in our community.

“The role fits in with our ethos of working collectively to help every individual use their talents and achieve their potential in a positive and holistic manner, which is a common aim, shared by our colleagues in the Batley and Birstall partnership.”