Welcome, and what a busy start to the year as preparations for the opening of Oakley School gathers pace!
There is a lot to update you on, and I’m pleased to start with news that the building projects at Myton School and at the site of Oakley School’s permanent home are making good progress and on track.
One of my most enjoyable tasks in the last few weeks has been getting our new Year 7 library ready for September so that our students will have their own dedicated space to read and study in a calm, rich and fully resourced environment. It will be a lovely space to learn and spend time in.
The last month has also brought some real progress in building the fantastic team of people who will teach and support our pupils at Oakley School. I’m delighted that we have appointed a Deputy Headteacher, Head of Year 7, and a SENCo, and I have asked them to share some information about themselves below.
Deputy Headteacher
Mrs Cassie Shirley
“I am hugely honoured to have been appointed as the Deputy Headteacher at Oakley School. Having worked in the local community for the last four years, I am keen to continue to be a part of the growth and development of the area. I am passionate about pastoral care and ensuring all young people have the opportunity to be their best. I love to meet new people; this comes in handy when finding new opportunities to benefit the young people at school. I look forward to working with Mrs Kaye with developing a school that will become an integral part of the South Leamington community.”
Head of Year
Mr Darryl Johnson
“I have been working within the Education system for twenty-three years, involving differing experiences in Birmingham, Coventry, Warwickshire and America. I am excited by the unique opportunities offered at Oakley School. The chance to work together with students and parents, developing key values in a school yet to open, is a once in a lifetime prospect. I look forward to meeting our new school community in the summer term as we prepare to start our journey together.”
SENCo
Mrs Katie Whitney
“My name is Katie Whitney, and I am delighted to be the SENCo for Oakley School. It is a privilege to be a part of shaping the vision and culture of this brand new school. I am incredibly passionate about inclusion and ensuring all pupils know they belong. My vision is that all pupils, regardless of their starting point or additional needs, will be confident, independent learners that make good progress in all areas. I believe that building strong relationships with pupils, their parents, and the local community is critical, and I look forward to meeting and getting to know you all.”
Our current recruitment focus is to appoint the Head of Departments who will develop an inspiring and ambitious curriculum and provide an excellent standard of teaching for our pupils.
We held a Recruitment Event to share more about these and other employment opportunities at Oakley School, and welcomed lots of people interested to hear our vision and join us on our journey to excellence.
Thank you for taking the time to read this update. I know we have a fantastic community supporting us as we continue to work towards realising our vision for Oakley School. I look forward to sharing updates and news with you over the coming months as more exciting elements are put in place for our successful September start!