Sharnbrook Academy has welcomed a new headteacher this September as Carly Waterman steps into the role, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for high-quality education.
Carly joins the Bedfordshire secondary school from the Ambition Institute, where she was Director of Early Career Teachers, supporting new entrants to the profession nationwide.
Prior to that, she was Headteacher at Lodge Park Academy in Corby for three years, and began her career as an English and Drama teacher.
Speaking as she took up the post, Carly said she had been inspired by the warmth and ambition of the school community.
“It is an honour to be joining Sharnbrook Academy as Headteacher,” she said. “From my first visit, I was struck by the dedication shown by pupils, staff and families alike.
“The students’ kindness, curiosity and drive to succeed are inspiring, and I’m looking forward to working in partnership with colleagues and the wider Trust to ensure every young person here can thrive and achieve their ambitions.”
Delighted
Richard Spencer, Executive Principal at Meridian Trust, welcomed Carly to the post and praised the progress already made at the school.
“We are delighted to welcome Carly to Sharnbrook Academy,” he said. “She brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for education, which will be of huge benefit to the school community.
“With her leadership, and the support of colleagues across Meridian Trust, Sharnbrook is well placed to continue building on its strengths and providing the very best opportunities for its pupils.”
The school also said goodbye to former Principal Clare Raku, who has taken on a new role as Headteacher of The Ferrers School in Higham Ferrers, remaining within the Trust.
“We would like to thank Clare for her dedicated leadership at Sharnbrook Academy and wish her every success in her new role,” added Mr Spencer.
“Her commitment and hard work have made a lasting impact on the school community, and we are pleased she will continue to work closely with colleagues here as part of the wider Trust.”
Sharnbrook Academy is part of Meridian Trust, which now operates 32 schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and the surrounding area.
Since joining the Trust in 2021, all Bedfordshire schools under its umbrella have been rated good or outstanding by Ofsted.
