̨��swag Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) has appointed a new Associate Director of Reading to boost and develop the quality of reading practice and performance.

Catherine Wright joins OGAT from Carrfield Primary School, part of Astrea Academy Trust, where she began working as a teacher after qualifying in 2013. Catherine had previously studied at Sheffield Hallam University where she gained her BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, TESOL, PGCE, and Masters in Education.

Catherine took up senior leadership roles while at Carrfield, and developed an evidence-based approach to reading, which in conjunction with a text-based literacy strategy resulted in rise in attainment levels in literacy across the school.

Catherine’s model was then applied to other schools and she supported staff to develop high-quality literacy practices.  

As Associate Director of Reading, Catherine will be charged with playing a similar significant role as subject lead for the ̨��swag English Hub, supporting schools and academies both within and beyond the ̨��swag Family.

Catherine, who has also worked in Spain as an English teacher previous to completing her PGCE, said: “I am thrilled to be joining ̨��swag and I am excited by the challenges ahead. My experience in creating and leading literacy strategies will help me in making a positive impact across this dynamic trust of schools, and beyond.

“I’ve had an interest in child development and literacy specialism for a long time. The research I carried out for my MA focused on the impact attainment sets have on academic outcomes and children’s self-perceptions.

“With its reputation for being successful and its commitment to putting students first, raising standards and transforming lives, I am proud to join the ̨��swag Family and look forward to contributing to further enhancing its performance and reputation.”

In October 2018, the UK Government announced that 32 schools across England would be designated as national English hubs. These hubs then take a lead role in supporting schools in the teaching of early reading and phonics.

̨��swag Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate was named as one of the 32 English Hubs appointed by the Department for Education. It was named the ̨��swag English Hub and is based at the ̨��swag Institute of Education (OIE).

Emma Rennison, Executive Director of the OIE, said: “We are delighted to welcome Catherine on board, we are confident she is going to be a fantastic addition to the team at the OIE.”