Derek gets head role at specialist school

Prosper Learning Trust has appointed the first headteacher for its new specialist autism school in Sunderland, Harry Watts Academy.

South Shields-born Derek Cogle has 31 years’ experience in special educational needs education.

Over the last 17 years, he has been a headteacher at specialist schools in Sunderland, South Tyneside and Northumberland.

The new academy is currently being built in Ramillies Road in Red House on the site of the former Bishop Harland Primary School.

It is named after the Sunderland-born sailor and diver who saved dozens of people from drowning in the River Wear and North Sea in the 19th century.

Derek said: “I am very excited to be part of Prosper

Learning Trust’s amazing vision for Harry Watts Academy and I am looking forward to making it a reality.

“The opportunity to work on all aspects of creating a new school, appointing quality staff and meeting new pupils with their own uniqueness and personalities is such a privilege.

“I would like the academy to become an outstanding provision for pupils with ASD throughout Sunderland and create the best possible opportunities and outcomes for them and their families.”

Mark Jones, Prosper Learning Trust’s chief executive officer, said: “The trust is delighted to have attracted such a high quality candidate. Derek brings with him a wealth of leadership experience, including understanding the challenges faced when opening a new school.”