Werrington Primary School is thriving under new leadership

Since joining the school last September, David has implemented a series of new initiatives designed to inspire a love for learning and prepare children with the skills they need for a successful life.

The start of a new term saw the ‘Kindness Crew’ launched, a concept created to encourage kindness throughout the school. Every week, one pupil from each class who has shown real kindness to others will be nominated by their peers and awarded with the responsibility to care for their class’s ‘crew member’- a special cuddly toy, becoming the ‘Kindness Crew Ambassador’ for the upcoming week.

David explained that he hopes this new scheme will encourage the children to recognise acts of kindness in their peers and encourage them to go above and beyond in building positive friendships. “The ‘Kindness Crew’ is a lovely way to reward children in our school who show kindness to staff members and form wonderful friendships with their peers. By using a nominating system, pupils learn to celebrate kind acts they see in others, which encourages them to lead by example and show even more compassion each day.”

David has also introduced Skills Builder, a programme that has helped redefine the school’s values, aims, and curriculum focus.

Skills Builder encourages pupils and staff to be confident communicators, resilient learners, aspirational citizens, and community champions. The programme aims to develop a strong ability to work together and respect others, helping every child to strive for their highest potential and to develop a love of learning and skills for a successful life.

Having embedded the Skills Builder programme to great effect in his previous two schools, David brings a proven track record to this new chapter at Werrington.

David emphasised his passion for the programme: “I am delighted to be introducing Skills Builder to our pupils and staff. I have seen firsthand how the programme helps develop children into more independent, bold and adaptable learners.

“Teamwork and respect for others are incredibly important skills to learn and are valued greatly at our school. I am certain that Skills Builder will help our pupils harness such skills and prepare them for the rest of their educational journey.”

This term also marks a refreshed focus on Personal Development, with children from all year groups encouraged to step into leadership roles. For instance, many Year 5 children are taking on the responsibility of Playground Leaders at lunchtime, running a range of games and activities and bringing more structure to outdoor play.

Children at Werrington Primary School also have the chance to run as candidates for the school council and to become House Captains. Lots of pupils are leading and running their own clubs, accessing twenty options at lunchtime this term.

David noted the significant benefits of encouraging leadership from a young age, explaining how these new Personal Development schemes complement the Skills Builder programme.

“This shift in how we teach Personal Development will help the children grow in both confidence and respect for others. He added: “Promoting an inclusive environment will help pupils grow in character and celebrate their differences, giving them the qualities they need to flourish in society.”

Cathy Carlisle, the CEO of Soke Education Trust, said: “I am extremely excited about this new chapter for Werrington Primary School. David brings a wonderful depth of experience, and I know his passion and expertise will make a real difference as the children continue to develop into respectful and active citizens.”

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