As a small multi-academy trust, The Corinium Education Trust has hitherto effectively engaged consultants to support school improvement. However, as we look forward to September 2022 and beyond, Chief Executive, Chiquita Henson, and Trustees are determined to build capacity within the Trust. 

 

As she prepares for a new role as dedicated Chief Executive, having previously balanced this role alongside that of Headteacher of Cirencester Deer Park School, Chiquita Henson, advertised a new post within The Corinium Education Trust that of School Improvement Lead (Primary).

 

This relatively unique post captured the interest of headteachers and senior school leaders and many contacted Chiquita Henson for more information about the role before submitting their applications, many of which were personalised to The Corinium Education Trust and the needs of our primary schools. Four candidates were shortlisted for interview on Monday 16 May 2022, each with different experiences.

 

During their interviews, the candidates were invited to assume the roles of School Improvement Leads and complete the standard elements of ‘deep dives’ across two of The Corinium Education Trust’s primary schools; the morning took place at Kemble Primary School and the afternoon at Siddington C of E Primary School. Candidates met with headteachers and subject leads, They observed teachers and scrutinised work in books before sharing their feedback. All commended themselves well. However, two candidates were invited back for a final panel interview on Tuesday 17 May.

 

Across both days, Rachael Scott, an aspiring school leader currently at Rodmarton Primary School, consistently impressed Chiquita Henson, and headteachers. Throughout the interview she was fully focused on school improvement and provided both challenge and support. She conducted her inquiries purposefully and demonstrated a strong knowledge and understanding of curriculum design and delivery.

 

Following further discussions and revisions to the original job description for the role, we are delighted Rachael Scott has accepted the post of part time School Improvement Lead (Primary) from September 2022. Prior to teaching at Rodmarton School, Rachael Scott taught in Hampshire at Hordle Primary School.

 

'I am looking forward to joining the Corinium Education Trust and sharing my expertise. Through my ambitious nature, I am committed to raising standards in teaching and learning. My experience has led me to develop innovative teaching methods, delivering outstanding lessons as a result. In leadership, I have shaped curriculum design to ensure consistency and thorough coverage of skills. I am an inspiring and supportive mentor who works hard to develop the skills of fellow teaching professionals. I believe a leader of teaching should build confidence in others. If teaching staff have confidence within themselves, then so do the children they teach.' Rachael Scott

 

We are also thrilled that Rachael will be undertaking some initial school improvement work for The Corinium Education Trust in June and July.

 

Once in post, Rachael Scott with work alongside Chiquita Henson and The Corinium Education Trust’s primary headteachers. She will coordinate the implementation of the Early Career Framework across our primaries and act as lead mentor. She will work directly with colleagues to strengthen teaching and subject leadership, promote networking and facilitate moderation. Furthermore, she will contribute to curriculum planning and delivery and provide targeted and bespoke coaching and mentoring. Rachael will also assist in The Corinium Education Trust’s planning for the opening of The Steadings Primary School in 2024.

 

‘We are looking forward to working with Rachael and we are confident that her deployment across our primary schools will create the capacity our headteachers need to help them and their teams bring about further improvement.’ Chiquita Henson, Chief Executive