Worden News

Headteacher Mr Catherall to Retire
23/01/2020

Dear Parent/Carer,

I am writing to inform you of my intention to retire from my post as Headteacher of Academy@Worden, at the end of this academic year.

This is one of the most difficult letters I have had to write, and I do so with a mixture of emotions. I have had the privilege of being Headteacher at the Academy for the last eight years, and I will leave with many fond memories of my time here since January 2002.

I must firstly thank all of the governors, more particularly Mrs Woodall, for putting their faith and trust in me on my appointment eight years ago, and I hope that I have repaid their confidence in continuing Worden’s transition across turbulent, challenging and uncertain educational, financial and political times. I have certainly enjoyed the many high points of the school’s career, proactively seeking ways to achieve the very best academic outcomes for the pupils in our care.

I have complete confidence in our governing body in making an outstanding appointment for my successor. I have worked extensively with many of them over the past eight years and they know exactly what will guarantee Worden’s success in remaining a warm, friendly and nurturing place where pupils can thrive, flourish and succeed. I have especially enjoyed seeing the school on its improvement journey in recent years, as it has more than doubled in size, in terms of pupil numbers. Its reputation in the local community has also grown and it has been both extremely exciting and rewarding to have accomplished this challenge, with the support of a happy, committed and highly professional staff, and an outstanding leadership team.

Whilst I would have relished the challenge to take the school into its next exciting phase, promoting an increasing pupil roll and growing staff numbers, it is the right time for a committed and passionate successor, who understands the school ethos, to continue our exciting journey. I will miss everything about Worden: your amazing children, who contribute so much to the school; you, the parents, who have been so supportive of our ambitious developments and, of course, my fantastic staff and governing body. I feel I will be handing Worden over to a new post-holder in a very positive and healthy position.

Thank you once again for all of your support, which has enabled me to end my career in such a positive way.

Yours sincerely

Mr C Catherall
Headteacher