“Strong relationships are the foundation of any successful school” says new VP of Queen Katharine Academy

James Bates, new Vice Principal at Queen Katharine Academy, part of Thomas Deacon Education Trust, plans to strengthen a culture of belonging, character development, and high expectations so every student feels supported to succeed.

The Peterborough academy recently appointed James to help build on its commitment to academic success and whole-child development. He brings experience across pastoral and leadership roles, with a particular focus on student development, behaviour and continuing positive school cultures.

In a Q&A below, James shares what drew him to the academy, his first impression of its community and his priorities for the months ahead.

1.       First of all, tell us a little about yourself and your background in education.

“I have worked in education for a number of years across a range of pastoral and leadership roles, with a particular focus on student development, behaviour and creating positive school cultures. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about helping young people develop not only academically but also as confident, respectful and responsible individuals. I firmly believe that schools play a vital role in shaping character and providing opportunities that enable every student to thrive, regardless of their starting point.”

2.       What attracted you to the Vice Principal role at Queen Katharine Academy, and what have your first impressions of the academy and its community been?

“What attracted me most to Queen Katharine Academy was its clear commitment to both academic success and whole child development. The academy's vision, values and ambition for every student are succinct with my own beliefs about education. Upon meeting Mark and the leadership team, I knew that our vision for child success was aligned. The potential for the academy and the student body is vast.  

My first impressions have been incredibly positive. I have been struck by the welcoming nature of the students, staff and wider community. There is a strong sense of potential, and I am excited to be part of the academy's continued journey.”

3.        QKA is built around three core values: Respect, Ambition and Responsibility. What do those values mean to you, and how have you seen them reflected in the academy so far?

“I believe these three values form the foundation of a successful school and society. Respect incorporates valuing others, embracing differences and creating an environment where everyone feels safe and included. Ambition encompasses striving to be the best version of yourself, setting high expectations and refusing to place limits on what can be achieved. Finally, Responsibility is about understanding the impact of our actions and taking ownership of our choices, learning and behaviour.

Since joining QKA, I have already seen these values in action. Students demonstrate respect towards staff and one another, there is a genuine desire to succeed, and many students take pride in contributing positively to academy life. These values are clearly more than just words on a wall; they are becoming part of the culture and identity of the academy.”

4.       The QKA Way also includes a series of pledges for students and staff. Is there one in particular that resonates with you, and why?

“The pledge that resonates most strongly with me is the commitment to ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported. Schools are at their best when every member of the community feels a sense of belonging and value. When students feel known, respected and encouraged, they are much more likely to engage positively. Creating that sense of belonging is something I am deeply passionate about, and it sits at the heart of effective character education and student success.”

5.       One of the academy's ambitions is to ensure that "anyone and everyone can be successful". What do you think is important in creating an environment where every student feels able to achieve their potential?

“The most important thing is creating a culture of high expectations and ambition. Every student should know that we believe in them and that success is possible.

This means providing excellent teaching, building positive relationships, clear routines and meaningful opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. It also means recognising that everyone’s successes are different.

When students feel safe, valued and challenged, they are far more likely to believe in themselves and achieve things they may never have thought possible.”

6.       Having now had the opportunity to get to know the academy and its community, what are your priorities for the months ahead, and what are you most excited about?

“My priority is to continue building positive relationships with students, staff, parents and carers so that I can understand the academy community even more deeply. Strong relationships are the foundation of any successful school.

“Alongside this, I am keen to further strengthen our culture of character, belonging and high expectations, ensuring that students have every opportunity to develop the skills and qualities they need for future success.

“What excites me most is the potential that exists within our students and the opportunity to help shape their journey. There is so much talent, ambition and enthusiasm across the academy, and I am looking forward to working with all stakeholders to help build on the excellent work already taking place at QKA. Together, we can ensure that every student can flourish and achieve their very best.”

With a shared commitment to the academy’s values, James is looking forward to working with students, staff, and families.

To find out more, visit Queen Katharine Academy.