I am humbled to have been chosen to lead a school community that I care deeply about and one that I have been a part of for over 20 years. Mr Blacoe has led significant improvements at Priesthorpe over the last 12 years. It has been a privilege to work alongside him. I am passionate about continuing our journey of improvement and ensuring the highest quality learning experiences for all of our students. 

I have been a teacher now in the local Bradford and Leeds area for almost 25 years. The majority of that time has been at Priesthorpe. I started as a Teacher of Business and Economics and have held a number of roles in school. I’m not sure I ever intended to stay at Priesthorpe as long as I have but there is something about the people, the students, the staff and the parents that keeps me here. Priesthorpe is a very special community and one that I am proud to continue to be a part of. 

There have been countless highlights during my time at Priesthorpe. I have been privileged to see students achieve exceptional grades and go on to study at top universities. I have also been humbled to watch students overcome significant challenges, and, through their resilience, achieve great things. Excellent grades are one part of our students’ journey. Becoming hard-working, kind, and compassionate young adults, ready to contribute positively to life in their communities and beyond, is just as important.

I have sky-high expectations of our students and believe that everyone can achieve great things. As a community of staff, students, parents, and carers, I know we have the team we need to make these great things happen and I am excited about the future.

Before the start of term I thought it would be useful to share a few updates. The first is about our uniform. Please take a moment to read the latest guidance on the website. Changes to Academy Uniform Expectations In particular, I would like to highlight one change around footwear. Students must wear plain black footwear. From September, this will include plain black trainers. I hope this is helpful and thank you for your support in making sure that any trainers are plain black and do not include any coloured logos, patterns or designs. 

I would also like to introduce ‘Meet Your Coach and Teacher Days’ or MYCAT. More details about MYCAT can be found on our website. MYCAT Days MYCAT Days are a great opportunity for parents and carers to get into school, find out more about what is going on and further strengthen the relationship between home and school. There will be a MYCAT Day for each year group. All of the dates for the year ahead can be found by following the link.

Finally, the arrangements for the start of term. 

Monday the 2nd September is a Training Day. School will be closed to students.

Tuesday 3rd September, school is open for YR7, 11 and 13 only. The day will start at 9am. YR7 students should go straight to the main hall. YR11 students will be directed to coaching bases. YR13 should go to the Post 16 area.

We are excited to welcome the newest members of our school community in YR7 and want to make sure they have all the support they need to settle in. 

Wednesday 4th September, school is open to all students. Coaching will start at 8.30am. Students in YR 8,9 & 10 will receive planners and timetables in coaching at the start of the day.

I am looking forward to seeing you all this year. I will be in touch regularly but if you need anything or have any questions please feel free to get in touch.

Best wishes

Louise Pratt

Principal

Co op Academy Priesthorpe