Martin Knowles is poised to assume the role of headteacher at Witton Park Academy, marking a significant transition for the school as it prepares for a new chapter. His appointment comes in the wake of Andy Burton’s announcement of departure in December, after a commendable seven-year tenure leading the school. Under Burton’s guidance, Witton Park Academy has undergone substantial developments, but the governing body has expressed confidence that Knowles will elevate the academy to new heights.
Knowles, with a wealth of experience in educational leadership, has a proven track record of positively impacting student outcomes and enhancing school ratings. He currently serves as the headteacher at Buile Hill Academy in Salford, where he has been under a National Leaders of Education (NLE) contract for the Northern Education Trust since Easter. During his time at Buile Hill, Knowles has consistently demonstrated his capability to drive change, instilling a vision that focuses on continuous improvement and the overall success of his students. His strategic initiatives have yielded promising results, and the school has seen notable advancements in student performance as well as a positive shift in its Ofsted grading.
The transition period for Knowles will commence following the February half term, during which Gavin Coleman will continue to lead the school as head of school. Coleman, together with executive headteacher Laura Fielden, will ensure that the academy maintains its momentum as it prepares for this leadership change. This arrangement underscores the school’s commitment to a seamless transition, ensuring that students and staff are well-supported throughout the process.
Knowles’s journey to Witton Park Academy is underscored by a strong belief in collaborative education. In 2015, Witton Park Academy entered into a partnership with Bowland High to form the multi-academy trust known as Achievement through Collaboration (AtC). This collaboration, established in 2016, enabled both institutions to leverage each other’s strengths, share resources, and create enriching educational opportunities for students. Witton Park Academy became a formal member of AtC in 2017, which has since fostered a network of schools dedicated to improving educational standards and outcomes for all pupils involved.
The confidence in Knowles’s leadership capabilities is echoed by Chief Executive Jane Chambers, who penned a letter to parents announcing his appointment. “I’m delighted to let you know that we’ve appointed a permanent head for Witton Park,” she wrote. She highlighted Knowles’s decade of experience in successfully leading two other academies, noting that in both previous positions, he made significant strides in improving student outcomes and enhancing the schools’ Ofsted ratings. Chambers’s message emphasizes the board’s commitment to providing stability and continuity for the academy as it transitions into this new phase.
In his message to the school community, Andy Burton reflected on his time at Witton Park Academy with a deep sense of pride. Having served not only as headteacher but also as deputy headteacher prior to his ascension, Burton has been a familiar and supportive presence at the school for many years. He expressed gratitude for the extraordinary leadership team, dedicated staff, and committed governing body that he worked alongside during his tenure. The legacy Burton leaves behind at Witton Park is significant, and many in the community are keen to build upon the strong foundation he established.
As Burton prepares to transition into his new role as executive headteacher in a large multi-academy trust in Yorkshire, he is comforted by the knowledge that his successor comes equipped with the necessary skills and vision to further the academy’s mission. “I have been privileged to work alongside a superb leadership team and wonderful staff body for an extended period of time,” Burton remarked. He acknowledged the overwhelming support he received from an engaged governing body, a critical element in the successes achieved during his tenure. His heartfelt message encapsulated a deep commitment to the school and its vision, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that defines the educational community at Witton Park.
The appointment of Martin Knowles represents not just a change in leadership but also an opportunity for revitalization and growth within the academy. With an unwavering focus on improving educational outcomes, Knowles is set to forge new partnerships and implement innovative strategies that align with the academy’s goals and values. His leadership style, characterized by active engagement with both staff and students, aims to foster an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
As the academy approaches this transition, the entire Witton Park community—students, parents, and staff—can look forward to Knowles’s leadership as he works to create a student-centered culture. His vision embraces an ethos where every student is supported, encouraged, and inspired to achieve their full potential. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Knowles aims to build on the existing frameworks established by his predecessors, enriching the educational experience and ensuring that all students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Moreover, Knowles’s commitment to professional development for staff is crucial. He understands that a well-prepared and motivated team is vital for delivering high-quality education. By promoting continuous professional development initiatives, he will ensure that educators are supported in their roles, fostering an environment where they can share best practices and collaborate on innovative teaching strategies.
Looking ahead, the academy also aims to strengthen its engagement with the local community, recognizing the integral role that families and community members play in students’ education and success. Knowles plans to enhance communication and collaboration with parents, inviting them to actively participate in the life of the school. Through open forums, parent workshops, and community events, he hopes to build strong relationships that form a supportive network for students.
As the school year progresses and Knowles steps into his new role, the parents of Witton Park Academy, as well as the wider community, can expect a renewed focus on fostering a school culture that values excellence, inclusivity, and engagement. His arrival provides a fresh opportunity to innovate and reimagine educational practices, ensuring that Witton Park remains dedicated to the academic, social, and emotional development of every student.
The transition to new leadership is often a time filled with anticipation and hope for what lies ahead. The steadfast beliefs that have guided Witton Park Academy remain unwavering, grounded in a commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all students. With the combination of Knowles’s experience and leadership, coupled with the legacy of his predecessors, the academy is well-positioned to thrive in the coming years.
In conclusion, Martin Knowles’s impending leadership at Witton Park Academy heralds an exciting new chapter for the institution and its community. With a dedicated team supporting him, he will be instrumental in fostering an environment that prioritizes academic success while nurtures the well-being of every student. As the transition unfolds, Knowles’s vision for collaboration, community engagement, and continuous improvement will undoubtedly pave the way for a bright future at Witton Park Academy.