A new headteacher has taken the helm at a primary school in Caversham following the retirement of its founding headteacher after 10 years in office.
Karen Edwards founded The Heights Primary School in 2014. It was initially based at a temporary site at Westfield Road Park.
When it started, the school had two reception classes and Year 1 class. but continued growth led to the site being expanded and the school moving to its permanent home at Mapledurham Playing Fields in September 2021.
Mrs Edwards has now retired, passing the reins to Hayley Harrison, who has been appointed by the Bellevue Place Education Trust (BPET).
Speaking on her appointment, Mrs Harrison said: “There are lots of things that really excite me about this post.
“But firstly, I would say that I’m most excited about joining the team at The Heights and meeting the children, parents and local community – everyone I met on my visits to the school seemed so happy, welcoming and proud of their school.”
Asked why the school appealed to her, Mrs Harrison said: “When applying for the post of headteacher there were so many things that ticked the box.
“I was immediately attracted to the fact that the school is fairly new and has recently moved into its new permanent home – after visiting I was even more impressed by the amazing facilities onsite and the beautiful setting.
“I really enjoy collaborating, so I was delighted to learn that The Heights had recently joined BPET a strong multi-academy trust with local schools. This partnership will not only benefit staff development (and behind the scenes paperwork), but will also provide our children with even more opportunities to achieve exceptional outcomes.
She added that she has already done groundwork in meetings over the summer with Mrs Edwards and deputy head Emma Fallon.
Asked what her vision for the school is, Mrs Harrison said: “My vision is to build a culture where every child finds school simply irresistible.
“School days should be some of the best days of your life – I want children to excitedly run in, eager to soak up every single opportunity and new piece of knowledge or skill presented to them.
“Alongside a rich and vibrant curriculum, I’m passionate about prioritising children’s wellbeing so that they grow up in this ever changing world with the belief and confidence that they can achieve whatever they want to.”
Finally, asked what her connections are to the area, she said: “Although I don’t live in Reading, I am familiar with Caversham and have childhood connections.
“I was born in the Royal Berkshire Hospital and grew up in and around West Berkshire. I have memories of going to Rivermead Leisure Centre as a child and spending lots of time in Caversham as my father used to own an estate agency on Church Road.
“Several members of my immediate family still live in Woodcote, which has changed significantly over the years. I look forward to learning more, as the school should be at the heart of its local community.”
According to her LinkedIn profile, Mrs Harrison served for six years and 10 months as the headteacher of Chalfont St Peter Church of England Academy, and eight years and 10 months as the head of Bisham CofE School.
