Moor the merrier for new head Gemma
PRINCIPAL ONE OF SIX ADDITIONS TO SCHOOL STAFF
JUST a couple of weeks after starting her new job, the principal of a Derby school says she is loving her “dream job at my dream school”.
Gemma Tyers has taken on the running of 895-pupil Alvaston Moor Academy after the retirement of Michelle Strong, and a number of other staff have been appointed to assist her.
Ms Tyers joins Alvaston Moor from her previous role as deputy head teacher at John Flamsteed Community School, Denby, bringing with her a wealth of experience spanning 23 years in education including international and senior leadership roles in a variety of educational contexts.
In addition, there are five additional new members in the senior leadership team and also three extra members of staff who are responsible for PSHE (personal, social, health and economic); personal development and attendance.
Also new to the senior leadership team are academy manager Zach Davies, now associate assistant principal, as well as year 10 head Colette Parker, who has also become associate assistant principal and is leading on parental engagement.
Ms Tyers said: “This is my dream job at my dream school. I’m passionate about the right for children to have an excellent education. You have to have high ambitions and I want all children at Alvaston Moor Academy to have high aspirations.
“I want them to have not just the best education, but also the best opportunities, so that when they leave school, they have choices, opportunities and belief in themselves. I want to build a school community so that everyone learns together. I’ve been overwhelmed by positivity from the staff and the students. We’ve welcomed several new members of staff to the senior leadership team and it’s all about Team AMA.”
Jo Day has been appointed to the academy where, as well as teaching English, she is aspirant assistant principal, leading on PSHE. Mollie Selby teaches geography and is also an aspirant assistant principal, leading on personal development – encompassing careers, British values and wellbeing. Meanwhile, Tom Pochin has also joined the school as a science teacher and assistant principal with responsibility for attendance. His role involves letting families know about the support available in the academy to help students attend. Ms Tyers said: “These are exciting times for Alvaston Moor Academy. I’m very clear that this is not about me, this is about the team, and the school. With this collaborative approach and support for all our students, together we can continue to progress this brilliant school in the heart of this community and be the best that we can be.”
I want to build a school community so that everyone learns together. Principal Gemma Tyers