Academy to nuture leaders

A NEW body tasked with inspiring educational leaders of the future has been launched by the Welsh Government.

The National Academy for Educational Leadership will support those already in leadership roles as well as encouraging those wanting to become leaders.

Launching the initiative Education Secretary Kirsty Williams said: “It is crucial that we develop leaders who can inspire, not only our young people, but also their colleagues so we can work collaboratively to raise standards. The academy will play a vital role in developing the current and future leadership talent for Wales and ensure all schools can deliver our new curriculum.”

A Shadow Board, led by former Chief Inspector of Schools Ann Keane, is overseeing the instigation of the academy. Newly appointed Academy Chair Sue Davies said: “I believe this is a hugely important step for education in Wales as we recognise the crucial role leaders play in delivering the reform we want within the educational sector.

“While appreciating the need to nurture future leaders it is also vital that we provide appropriate support for those delivering leadership roles at present, in what can only be described as very challenging times.”

A group of 12 associates, made up of head teachers from across Wales, has been established. One of these, Gwyn Tudur head of Ysgol Tryfan, Bangor, said: “As school leaders, we can at times feel isolated, and the establishment of the National Academy for Educational Leadership and its core aims have been greatly appreciated.”

Former headteacher of Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, Huw Foster Evans, also former chief officer or the GwE (the North Wales Regional School Effectiveness and Improvement Service, has been appointed chief executive of the new academy.

A report from the National Association of Head Teachers Cymru last year revealed heads are under increasing pressure across Wales dealing with everything from leaking roofs and power cuts to exam results as they struggle with dwindling budgets.