Western Primary School in Harrogate has appointed a new headteacher to take over at the end of the academic year.
Johanna Slack will take over from current headteacher Tim Broad, who is to retire.
Ms Slack is currently headteacher at Tang Hall Primary School in York and has over 20 years teaching experience.
She will take charge of Western Primary, which more than 500 children aged from two to 11 attend on Cold Bath Road.
Ms Slack said:
“My leadership style is one that is open and nurturing. It is built from developing strong relationships with everyone in the school community which has mutual respect at its core.
Joining Western Primary School will see me starting my third headship and I am looking forward to bringing to my new role a wide range of experiences, skills and knowledge which will support me and the team to continue the improvement journey to ensure all our children are getting the very best we have to offer.”
Ms Slack and Western Primary School
Mr Broad became acting headteacher of Western Primary in January 2020 before his full-time appointment in 2021.
Prior to this, he had worked as a teacher, phase leader and deputy head at the school since September 1999.
Mr Broad said:
“I feel very proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to lead this fantastic school. I have very mixed emotions around the prospect of retirement but feel it is the right time for me, my family and the school.
“I have been lucky enough to work with some incredibly talented colleagues over many years, both at Western and within our Trust, and am grateful for their support and for their sustained contribution to our pursuit of excellence for our pupils and families.”
Western Primary is a member of Red Kite Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust of 14 schools across North and West Yorkshire.
Trust chief executive Richard Sheriff said:
“We are indebted to Tim Broad for leading Western through some of the most challenging years any of us have faced. His constant, reassuring presence at the school during the pandemic was a huge comfort to children and parents.
“He has led his wonderful team with skill and moral purpose, ensuring Western has become even stronger under his tenure.”
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