A Derbyshire school, which was saved from closure 12 months ago, has appointed a new head teacher – the latest announcement in a year of rapid development.
St Anselm’s School in Bakewell, which was rescued by a wide community effort, has undergone a period of significant growth and achievement, having established a new board of trustees at the beginning of the academic year.
Last November the Peak District independent school announced it had successfully passed an Independent School Standards Inspection, and this last term, Little Puddings, the new year-round nursery opened its doors.
Overseeing all of this will be new head Hannah Cunningham, who takes up her new role from September.
She brings with her a wealth of experience from a range of teaching and leadership roles, including head of Mylnhurst Preparatory School in Sheffield, and more recently head of junior school at Repton, in Al Barsha, Dubai.
Educated at Wakefield Girls’ High School, Hannah went on to complete a BA (Hons) in Music at the University of Manchester, followed by a PGCE also at the University of Manchester.
Emma Harrison, St Anselm’s chair of trustees, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Hannah as our next head. She bowled us over during the interviewing process by her great energy, sharp focus and clear sense of direction for the school.
“Hannah’s strong background and capability, alongside an understanding of the school’s values and ongoing ambition will ensure that we continue to build and thrive in the years ahead.”
Current head teacher Peter Cook, who has led the 138-year-old school during a transition period following changes at the end of last academic year will step down in July.
Mrs Cunningham said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining St. Anselm’s at such a crucial point in its history.
“We will continue to treasure the traditions that make a St. Anselm’s education so distinctive – from house matches and competitions, to the international choir tours – with the school day giving children space and time to think deeply, develop lasting friendships and discover their passions and strength.
“While at the same time, it is my ambition that St. Anselm’s will be a pioneer, redefining what exemplary preparatory education looks like for today’s families: relevant, outward-looking and, above all, rooted in the belief that children thrive when they are trusted with freedom and responsibility.
“After ten years working in some of the most respected schools in the UK and overseas, I bring a global perspective and a strong belief that children should grow up seeing a world full of opportunity: something to explore, to contribute to – and to help shape.”
Mrs Harrison added: “We are extremely grateful to our current head, Peter Cook, for his hard work, dedication and support throughout this past year.
“Without Peter’s commitment and leadership, we would not be where we are today. His contribution to the school and to this process has been invaluable.”