Early appointment of new Academy Principal Designate ensures smooth transition

Oasis Community Learning is pleased to announce the appointment of Glen Denham as Principal Designate of the new all-through Oasis Academy in Croydo, which subject to final approval following the official consultation process, is due to open in September 2009 and which will replace the Ashburton Infant, Junior and Community Schools.

The appointment of Mr Denham, who is currently the serving Deputy Head Teacher at Woolwich Polytechnic School, marks a significant step on the way towards the establishment of the new Academy.

As Principal Designate, Glen Denham’s first responsibility will be to work with existing staff at each of the schools in order to prepare for the opening of the new Academy in September 2009, which will specialise in English and Performing Arts with Business and Enterprise. Mr Denham’s role will incorporate working with the existing Heads at the Infant and Junior Schools to deliver an outstanding Academy under the over-arching leadership of John Murphy – the appointed Executive Principal.

Steve Chalke, Founder and CEO of Oasis Community Learning is confident Mr Denham is the right person to lead the new Oasis Academy:
“Glen is an exceptional Deputy Head Teacher with a proven track record and outstanding reputation in team building, raising attainment and achievement in a wide variety of schools. He has held positions of Deputy Head in both Primary and Secondary schools and furthermore has broad leadership experience in SEN and Further Education institutions alongside a deep commitment to the Oasis ethos. In short, I am convinced that Glen has the leadership skills, clarity of vision and educational strength that will help make the new Oasis Academy a flagship all-through school.”

Dave Hill, Executive Director for Children, Young People and Learners, said:
“Glen Denham’s appointment is a positive step forward for the future of the proposed new all-through Academy, and for the Transforming Croydon Schools programme as a whole. We look forward to welcoming him to Croydon when the new term starts in September. The new Academy will improve the quality of education, raise attainment and provide a supportive environment for local children and young people, and we’re confident that parents and students will see positive changes quickly once the schools reopen as part of the new Academy.”