New head teacher appointed at Vale of York Academy

Alexis Green-Harding will become principal at Vale of York Academy, in Clifton, in September.

Mr Green-Harding previously worked at Archbishop Holgate’s CE School, in Badger Hill, where he served as head and deputy head of the school.

Mr Green-Harding said it is an “honour and a privilege to be joining Vale of York Academy as principal”.

“I am really looking forward to getting to know the pupils, families, staff and wider community, and to working together to build on all that makes the academy special.

“Vale has a strong sense of community, where people are known, valued and supported, and that is something I am committed to protecting and strengthening.

“I am excited about what we can achieve together and ensuring that Vale continues to be a school we are all proud of.

“Most importantly, I want every student to feel happy, safe and successful here, and to leave fully prepared for their next steps.”

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Vale of York Academy is part of the Heartwood Learning Trust, formerly the Hope Sentamu Learning Trust, which also runs Manor CE Academy in Poppleton.

A trust spokesperson said Vale of York Academy has seen “steady improvements in their results in recent years and Mr Green-Harding is committed to continuing this upward trend”.

“He is keen to ensure that the school continues to focus on providing high quality teaching alongside strong pastoral support for students,” they added.

Trust ‘excited about new chapter’ for school, says CEO

Helen Winn, CEO of the Heartwood Learning Trust, noted Vale of York Academy’s Ofsted inspection last year, which found it had maintained the standards of its previous ‘good’ rating, and said: “We are excited about the next chapter for Vale of York Academy and look forward to seeing the school continue to go from strength to strength under Mr Green-Harding’s leadership.”

She said the trust is “delighted to welcome Mr Green-Harding to Vale of York Academy”.

“He brings a wealth of leadership experience, a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people and a genuine passion for creating school communities where every child can thrive.

“When Ofsted visited last year they noted that staff are proud to work at the school and that pupils develop positive relationships with staff. These comments reflect the strong culture that exists within the school and provide an excellent foundation for the future.”