Welcome

Welcome from the Principal - Leah Perring

My name is Leah Perring and, having worked in education for over 12 years, I cannot wait to take on the role of Principal at GEMS Wantage Primary Academy.

I am currently the Deputy Headteacher at Ashton Keynes C of E Primary School in North Wiltshire. During this time, I have also worked as Acting Headteacher in the Headteacher’s absence. I have previously worked in different positions for eight years at Robinswood Academy Trust in Gloucester and am a fully certified Challenge Partner Reviewer where I visit other schools annually to quality assure their setting.  The skills and experiences I have acquired so far have provided the most valuable and rewarding experiences and I relish the opportunity to continue this in our brand new school.

 I would like to take this opportunity to offer you a very warm welcome to GEMS Wantage Primary Academy and look forward to working together.

As a trust, GEMS has a proven track record of high-standards and high-quality teaching and learning. I will ensure this is continued in our school. It is a very exciting time for all of us as we establish GEMS Wantage Primary Academy in the local community and we welcome your support for our school.

I greatly value parents, carers and families as key to children’s success in education and I am particularly keen to involve you in your child’s learning, engaging parents across the school, communicating with parents and carers about in-class learning, and supporting you to be able to support your child.

My ethos for GEMS Wantage Primary Academy is firmly rooted in my belief in providing the best opportunities for all pupils. We will offer:

• A place of discovery and wonder, full of happy, inquisitive children, who love learning and who are determined to do their best and try new things
• A place where we pursue high academic standards but also provide a well-balanced education, where children are given an opportunity to discover talents across the whole curriculum including in core-subjects as well as STEM, the arts, PE & sport and languages.
• A place where aspiration is key: every child will be encouraged and given their chance to shine regardless of ability or circumstances. Mistakes are welcomed as opportunities for new learning and understanding.
• A place where learning is for all: our parents, carers and community are welcome as our key learning partners in enabling children and families to flourish.

We work collaboratively with other schools in the GEMS Learning Trust, sharing practice and resources, however, our school itself will retain its autonomy and uniqueness.

Our aim is to recognise each child's individual talents. We want pupils at GEMS Wantage to have memorable, lifelong learning experiences. Our school will be very special, with a learning environment to be immensely proud of.

I look forward to meeting you, come and find out more on one of our upcoming tours.

Leah Perring

Principal