Westbury Leigh Church of England Primary School has welcomed Darren McKay as its new Headteacher, with a pledge to create a school where children, families and staff can thrive.
Darren joins the school as it continues to develop as part of the Palladian Academy Trust, bringing a focus on educational excellence, strong relationships and child-centred leadership.
Following his first visit to Westbury Leigh, Darren said, “What really struck me was the potential. The school has fantastic grounds, wonderful facilities and, most importantly, amazing people. Every adult I met wanted the very best for the children. There was a real sense of care, pride and ambition, and that inspired me straight away.”
At the heart of Darren’s approach is a belief that children flourish when they feel safe, valued, understood and inspired.
“My job is to help people become the best they can be,” he said. “That means supporting children to learn and flourish, supporting colleagues to grow and develop and creating a culture where everyone feels they belong.”
As he begins his new role, Darren says his priority is to listen to pupils, families and staff and understand what already works well at the school.
“I want to listen to children, families and staff and celebrate what is already working well,” he said. “Any changes we make should enhance children’s learning, wellbeing and opportunities, helping every child to succeed.”
Three values – Inclusion, Passion and Courage – will underpin his leadership, reflecting a commitment to aspiration, supporting children and creating a community where everyone is encouraged to learn and grow.
Darren also wants staff to feel supported and empowered.
“I want colleagues to feel trusted, valued and empowered to be the very best they can be,” he said. “My role is to support, encourage and challenge with compassion and empathy. When adults thrive, children thrive too.”
Building strong relationships with families will also be central to his plans.
“Families are a child’s first educators and know their children best,” Darren commented. “Education is most successful when schools and families work together as equal partners. Together, we can help every child become the very best version of themselves.”
Looking ahead, Darren hopes Westbury Leigh will become a school where children enjoy learning and families feel welcomed and involved.
“I want Westbury Leigh to be a school where children love learning, where families feel welcomed and valued, where colleagues feel proud to work and everyone is encouraged to aim high,” he said. “I want it to be the school of choice in our community and a place where every child can flourish.”
Asked what he hopes pupils will say about their time at Westbury Leigh in years to come, Darren said, “Westbury Leigh is the best school and it prepared me brilliantly for secondary school and the future.”
His message to pupils, families and colleagues as he begins the role is, “Trust me. Together, let’s be more. Let’s be ambitious for every child, support one another and build a school where everyone feels valued, belongs and can truly thrive.”
