The Northern Leaders Trust Education Improvement Team, a specialised group of education experts, is making a significant impact in enhancing teaching standards and student outcomes across Studio West and Kenton School.
By focusing on collaboration, sharing best practices, and implementing innovative strategies, the team aims to deliver a high-quality education to every student. With a mission to empower educators and inspire learners, their work is already transforming classroom experiences and driving positive change.
The team comprises of 10 dedicated staff members who work across both schools to support teachers and implement proven systems and processes. John Pacey, Director of Teaching and Learning, enhances instructional quality and fosters professional growth. Noel Stoddart, Director of Curriculum and Data, ensures the academic framework is inclusive and forward-thinking, preparing students for future success. Lucy Rodderick, Director of SEND and Safeguarding, focuses on supporting students with special educational needs while maintaining a safe, nurturing environment. Helen Wilson, Director of Attendance and Inclusion, works to boost student engagement and remove barriers to learning.
Empowering Excellence Through Subject Leadership
Central to the Trust’s vision of placing students at the centre of everything it does are its Trust Directors of Subject. Amy Cadwallendar (English), Tom Grayson (Mathematics), Georgia Turner (Science), Rob Carradice (Modern Foreign Languages), Chris O’Neil (Humanities), and Aimee Kirtley (Performing Arts and Music) bring expertise and innovation to their respective disciplines. Our Directors of Subject work across both schools supporting leaders and students. Their collaborative efforts deliver an inclusive curriculum that prepares students for success both in and beyond the classroom.
Elevating the Curriculum to Meet Modern Demands
As Director of Curriculum, Noel Stoddart, plays a pivotal role in crafting an enriched educational experience for students which goes beyond the national curriculum to prepare students for success in further education, training or employment.
An important part of the curriculum is the focus on personal development and the ambition to develop students to grow into happy and healthy adults who are positive contributors to local and global communities.
Personal development strands are evident in all subjects as teachers start new learning by explaining ‘why this, why now?’ to provide context and a rationale for lessons.
This year, the Trust launched a unique elective curriculum programme, enabling students to participate in an activity of their choice for 35 minutes at the end of each day. This broadens their horizons and builds cultural capital – opportunities that are especially significant given the socioeconomic diversity within the student body and the fact that the Trust serves some of the most deprived neighbourhoods in the city.
Data-driven Improvements
We have developed new systems to ensure that best practice is readily shared and lesson planning is of the highest quality, whilst at the same time, reducing the workload for teaching staff.
Supporting SEND and Safeguarding with Innovation
Lucy Rodderick has established exemplary safeguarding practices and robust SEND provision by working closely with school SENDCOs and safeguarding leads. Her work ensures every student feels safe and supported, with tailored strategies to help SEND students succeed academically and personally.
Tackling Attendance Challenges
Helen Wilson has overseen significant improvements in attendance, with a 4.5% rise at Kenton School and 1.8% at Studio West. She also leads initiatives like The Haven Project, designed to support students facing emotionally-based school nonattendance, helping them reintegrate in to school. Improving attendance and supporting students’ well- being go hand-in-hand. Helen and her team support the schools to create a supportive environment where every student feels seen, valued and equipped to succeed.
A Unified Vision for Success
Executive Principal Martyn Gordon supports principals in delivering a vibrant and positive culture across the Trust. He reflects: “The impact of our work is clear in the record results achieved by our students, and our commitment to providing the best education every day remains unwavering.”
“I am very proud to be part of this journey and see first-hand each day what an incredible difference our schools make to our fantastic students.”
CEO Lee Kirtley added: “Building this incredible team has been a priority since I joined the Trust. Their dedication and expertise are making a tangible difference to students’ lives and the schools’ success. I couldn’t be prouder of their daily commitment to out students and staff.”
“The Northern Leaders Trust Education Improvement Team stands as a shining example of what focused collaboration and expertise can achieve.”
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