Challenge ahead for new primary school head (From Malvern Gazette)

Challenge ahead for new primary school head

9:37am Friday 18th July 2008

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NEW headteacher Julia Milwood was expecting a challenge when she accepted the post at Malvern Hills Primary in May, but little could she have known the situation the school would find itself in just two months later.

She joins a school that has just been put on special measures following a damning Ofsted inspection, and whose future will be decided by Worcestershire County Council in September.

She said: "I had been aware of the school's history for a long time and I felt it was a school I wanted to be a part of and move forward.

"I knew it was going to be a challenge.

"One thing that is helping me is the governers are so determined. They have so much energy, they are inspiring me to continue with it."

Mrs Milwood has been working with the departing head Andrew Chilman over the past term to ensure a smooth transition for the school's pupils but is also getting ready to implement her own plans.

"First of all I want to continue to raise the standard at the school and continue with all the good done by Mr Chilman.

"I want to raise the profile of the school with certain aspects such as music and PE and really bring all the good points of the school into focus.

Mrs Milwood's experience as deputy headteacher at Warndon Primary School in Worcester, and at Suckley Primary School before that may prove crucial.

"I've worked at a small school before so I know what it's like to be working in mixed year groups.

"It's very much a family atmosphere. They can offer individual teaching and personal learning.

"It's about knowing each child and their family."

The new head is confident that the school can continue despite the current threat of closure.

"This community needs a school and it needs a successful school, which is why I'm here," she said.

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