What attracted you to the position at TWA?

I was previously in a similar role at a federation of primary schools, and the opportunity to experience this role within a secondary school setting was an exciting prospect. The chance to work at a brand-new school also came with several exciting benefits. Working at TWA school means I can make a significant impact on the local community by helping to establish a reputable and successful educational institution. Working with a team of like-minded professionals who are all starting together fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork and, most importantly, we have the unique opportunity to help shape the school's culture and ethos, ensuring it aligns with modern educational values and the needs of the community.

Describe your journey at TWA.

Since starting at TWA, I have benefited from a wealth of knowledge shared by staff across the Trust. Not only have I learnt from my counterparts at our other school, TCA, based on the Wisbech Campus, but also from all schools across the Brooke Weston Trust. In just a few weeks, I have had access to numerous training courses, both internally and externally, which have been crucial in helping me develop my role. I have enjoyed every moment in my new position, surrounded by dedicated, kind, and caring staff who all share the same high aspirations for the young people we work with, delivered with passion and kindness.

What training/professional development opportunities have you taken advantage of since being at TWA?

I have taken advantage of several training courses offered to me. These opportunities have been crucial in helping me develop my role and enhance my skills as an Education Welfare Officer. These have been in a wide range of areas, including Safeguarding, Attendance, Mental Health and Positive Behaviour Support.

Would you recommend TWA to prospective staff?

Absolutely! In addition to the points above, the many additional benefits afforded to staff through the Brooke Weston Trust make TWA an excellent place to work. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering applying for a job here.

What attracted you to the position at TWA?

I am genuinely thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the establishment of a new school and collaborate on building a curriculum and a dedicated team from the ground up. I am deeply inspired by Dr Lawrence’s vision and fully support the values and virtues she is embedding within the school’s ethos and curriculum. My passion for STEM education drives me to make a significant impact by shaping its foundation at TWA.

What training/professional development opportunities have you taken advantage of since being at TWA?

In terms of professional development, I have participated in the Brooke Weston Trust’s Step Leadership programme. This initiative has proven invaluable due to its hands-on, pragmatic approach and has allowed me to learn from seasoned leaders in the education sector.

Would you recommend TWA to prospective staff?

I would highly recommend TWA to prospective staff. Our small school setting fosters a strong sense of community and enables us to develop meaningful connections with our students, thereby enhancing the impact we can make on their educational journey.

 What attracted you to the position at TWA?

I was drawn to the position at TWA because of its commitment to academic excellence and focus on fostering a holistic and inclusive learning environment. Furthermore, the opportunity to build and lead a Humanities department that creates a rich, integrated curriculum that engages students with history, geography, culture, and citizenship deeply resonated with me. 

Describe your teaching journey prior to TWA

I hold a BA from Auckland University, a teaching diploma from AUT, and I am submitting my Master’s thesis on reading intervention and self-efficacy beliefs this year. With my secondary teaching experience in New Zealand, I have developed a passion for fostering student success regardless of subject area, having taught across both English and Humanities departments. I supported the development of a school-wide literacy strategy and implementation, as well as professional development initiatives for my subject areas. My passion for education extends beyond the classroom, as I have mentored students in leadership roles; guided a variety of extracurricular groups, including Writer's Club, Amnesty International, Debating, and Model UN; and coached/ managed a variety of sports teams over the years.

What would you like to see happen when working at TWA?

I strongly believe that the Humanities play a vital role in shaping empathetic, informed global citizens. With that in mind, I hope to see us sharing stories, exploring diverse cultures, and making connections between the past, literature, and contemporary issues. I look forward to contributing to the vibrant learning environment at TWA and inspiring students to see the Humanities as a pathway to understanding and shaping the world around them.

What attracted you to the position at TWA?

I was drawn to the position at TWA because the vision of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the trust aligns closely with my own educational beliefs. The opportunity to help grow a school from scratch that shares my ethos was incredibly appealing. Being one of the pioneers allows me to give back to a community close to where I grew up and support students in becoming their best selves. Additionally, TWA offers a wide variety of personal and career development opportunities, which was a significant factor in my decision.

Describe your journey at TWA.

My journey at TWA has been deeply rewarding and full of excitement and opportunity. From the moment we opened our doors in September 2024, I've been at the forefront of launching our Music and Drama curriculum. Establishing us as a singing school through vibrant singing assemblies and our enthusiastic school choir has been a highlight. We're already making waves with our preparation for outreach at local care homes and gearing up for an exciting Christmas carol concert.

Beyond the arts, I lead in teaching and learning across the school, spearheading the development and implementation of our marking policy and quality assurance strategies. I am looking forward to developing our approach to teaching and learning further over the coming year.  I'm also gearing up to lead initiatives for High Achieving Pupils (HAPS) and the Brilliant Club.

It's been a whirlwind few months, but seeing the positive impact on our students and being part of such a dynamic and creative team makes it all worthwhile. I love being part of a school where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to innovate and inspire.

What training/professional development opportunities have you taken advantage of since being at TWA?

Since joining TWA, I have participated in several professional development opportunities. I am involved in leadership training with the Education Institute on behavior and culture, and I am working on a cross-campus project with SSAT, focusing on the research and development of formative assessment strategies. As part of the trust's teaching and learning team, I have gained new skills and had the opportunity to write and implement whole school policies, which is something I am very interested in. Later this year, I will also be starting my National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL).

Would you recommend TWA to prospective staff?

100% – TWA is a warm and supportive environment where professional growth is encouraged and readily available. We are a highly collaborative team with high expectations and a clear vision for the school's future. Being part of this fantastic team, where everyone is passionate about providing outstanding education and loves teaching, is truly rewarding. I would highly recommend TWA to anyone looking to be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking educational community.

What attracted you to the position at TWA?

Taking on the role of an administrator at the Wisbech Academy marked a huge career shift. I previously worked in retail whilst I was studying sports coaching, paedology, education, and development at Lincoln College. When I heard about a new school opening up, I was immediately intrigued and began researching it. The opportunity to work at a brand-new school was incredibly appealing. Joining the Wisbech Academy presented a unique chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals and collectively shape the school's future. This prospect of contributing to the foundation and growth of the academy, while fostering a positive and innovative learning environment, was something I found very exciting. Working at the Wisbech Academy means being part of a dedicated team committed to excellence and making a meaningful impact on the students and the community.

Describe your journey at TWA.

My journey at TWA has had its ups and downs, but overall, I have loved every part of it. Working alongside staff who are kind and dedicated to students’ education and welfare has been incredibly rewarding. The students at TWA are amazing in their own unique ways, making every day a new and exciting experience. Since joining Wisbech Academy, I have learnt a variety of new skills and had numerous opportunities to grow. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and accomplished things I never thought possible. Collaborating with staff from both TWA and TCA, as well as external partners, has been a highlight of my time here. This journey at TWA has significantly contributed to my personal growth, and I am very excited to see what the future holds for the academy.

What training/professional development opportunities have you taken advantage of since being at TWA?

Since joining TWA, I have participated in numerous training sessions and opportunities which have enhanced my knowledge, understanding and skills within my role.

Would you recommend TWA to prospective staff?

I would highly recommend working with us at the Wisbech Academy for a variety of reasons. TWA is an excellent place to work, from the teachers, support staff and the students. There are plenty of opportunities to progress your career at TWA, especially with this school evolving.