Trudy Harrison has joined the local community in commending Whitehaven Academy’s head teacher for his continued efforts despite a turbulent year at the school.
Trudy has this week spoken of her faith in Whitehaven Academy’s Headteacher, Warren Turner, describing him as ‘patriarch of the school’.
It comes after Cumbria Education Trust was announced by the Secretary of State for Education as the new sponsor of The Whitehaven Academy following a resolution that was passed by CET’s Board of Trustees in July.
Mrs Harrison, said: “As we look forward to a brand new school for Whitehaven Academy it is worth reflecting on last year’s impressive academic progress, despite the challenges.
“Under the leadership of Warren Turner, a patriarch of the school, Whitehaven Academy achieved the third highest Progress 8 score in the county.
“I think we can be sure that with this continued leadership, the dedicated teaching workforce, the on going support from our community and the rightful investment in a brand new building - Whitehaven has all the ingredients for success.
“Parents have demonstrated their faith in Whitehaven Academy as this year we have record numbers of families making the school their first choice.
“We have a commitment from the Department of Education that the new school will be complete by April 2021, with works already on going and it is not a moment too soon – Whitehaven Academy’s students and staff must have the environment they deserve and the education we all want for our community.”
Judy Davidson, a former teacher and governor at The Whitehaven Academy and a member of the Parent Action Group, said: “With the full support of the community, Trudy Harrison MP and the Parent Action Group, despite the turmoil of last year when the school faced well documented huge issues, the school was the second most improved school in Cumbria on Attainment 8 and the third on Progress 8.
“These results followed a positive Section 8 inspection when Mr Turner and his team gained the highest praise from Ofsted.
“All of the people involved with the school have huge faith in Mr Turner’s leadership and will support him and Cumbria Education Trust in the work that needs to be done to carry on this significant improvement including working towards a return of post 16 education to the school.”
