Our specialist primary school Arc School Napton, Warwickshire has appointed a new Headteacher. Ange Heyes took up the post as the new term began in September.
Ange joins the school, which supports children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties and those with an autism spectrum condition who are aged between 5 and 11, with a wealth of experience in the sector, having taught in Independent Special Schools since 2006.
Ange therefore brings specialist experience in managing emotions and challenging behaviour as well as an innovative and holistic approach to teaching and learning.
As a former peripatetic teacher, Ange realised that many of the “behavioural” difficulties children experienced came as a result of processing and learning difficulties.
She said: “That was my profound moment, it was a huge epiphany to realise the children were not simply being naughty. Ever since I have been an advocate for special educational needs.”
Since that moment Ange has worked extensively in independent special school SEN (special educational needs) settings, both as permanent team members and interim. She joined Napton in February 2018, working as an interim Deputy Head before being appointed as Head over the summer.
Ange added: “I’m looking forward to many things here at Napton. We want to be more involved in our community, to work more with other schools. The young people here are already at a disadvantage and it is our aim to help bridge the gap that those disadvantages cause.
“We want to be here for parents and families, to support them in this journey, helping the children go as far as they possibly can. I am very much looking forward to the challenges and helping the children at Napton achieve their very best.
“My vision is to give every child at the school exceptional learning experiences to enable them to fulfil their early ambitions and to open the pathways they need to succeed. Every child here has the ability to do amazing things and we will unlock these hidden talents to allow the children to flourish in whatever pathways they choose.
“I have a profound belief that every child has the right to progressive education and the highly experienced and supportive team within the school community work exceptionally hard to deliver this vision.”
Arc School Napton is part of the Kedleston Group of schools, which has a number of day and residential schools across the UK including three other members of the Arc Schools across Warwickshire and the West Midlands – Arc School Old Arley, Arc School Ansley and Arc Oakbridge School.
Lee Reed, Kedleston’s Chief Operating Officer said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ange into the role of Head Teacher at Arc School Napton. Her extensive experience and understanding of the support the children need to help them achieve all they possibly can is a huge asset to the school.”