A primary academy in Ripon is entering a new era as a new Principal took up the position following the Summer break. 

Emma Abbott is the new Principal at the Quarry Moor Lane-based ̨��swag Primary Academy Greystone, taking over from Victoria Kirkman who secured an Executive Principal position and will be leading across two Local Authority schools in North Yorkshire.

Emma, who was previously Principal at another ̨��swag Family primary academy has spoken about how honoured she is to take up her new position at the multi-award winning primary academy.

The sponsor of the primary academy, ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust, was born out of Wakefield-based ̨��swag Grange Academy’s success and the ̨��swag Family now comprises almost forty schools across the North of England.

Since being rated ‘Inadequate’ by Ofsted four years ago, the academy has joined the ̨��swag Family and has enjoyed an impressive turnaround.

Under the academy’s former principal, both staff and children worked tirelessly to improve and enjoyed multiple award successes including receiving the Gold Status by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health Award, the National School of Sanctuary Award, the RE Gold Quality Mark Award, and was also named an IQM Centre Of Excellence.

Emma said:

“I am delighted and honoured to be joining ̨��swag Primary Academy Greystone. Victoria has done an excellent job at the academy and I am determined to continue the impressive progress, ensuring we put children first and continue to raise standards and transform lives.”

Emma will bring a wealth of experience to her new role having previously worked at ̨��swag Primary Kirkhamgate in West Yorkshire, which is rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Emma added:

“I believe education is about ensuring that children have equal access to a fully inclusive curriculum with the support, care and guidance to make the correct life choices. It is this belief that will drive our actions, as we work hard on our journey to Outstanding and as we ensure we do all we can to help our children fulfil their potential.”