New executive headteacher appointed at Wykeham and Hackness primary schools
A new executive headteacher has been appointed to oversee two rural primary schools near Scarborough.
Rowena Thorp has been appointed new executive headteacher of Wykeham CE Primary School and Hackness CE Primary School, by Elevate Multi Academy Trust, based at Alanbrooke, near Thirsk.
Brought up in Pickering from the age of nine, Rowena studied play writing and drama at Birmingham University.
“When I came home I became really interested in young families and was struck by the speed of children’s development and how the support of adults accelerated this,” she said.
She volunteered in a local primary school and took a PGCE in early years education at the Scarborough campus of Hull University, training at Thornton Dale Primary School.
As a newly qualified teacher, she applied to Wykeham CE Primary School where she was interested in the play-based ethos of Reception class.
“It was really exciting and I did that for eight years; I loved it,” said Rowena, who is married with a nine-year-old daughter.
She was appointed SENDCO for Wykeham and Hackness, before becoming deputy head and English lead for both schools, then interim head.
“I have been really lucky in being presented with big opportunities at the schools and now I am finally the head,” she said. “I have experienced such massive growth which is what we aim to offer our children.
“We are very committed because we are small schools and have to ensure the children are offered every opportunity. I really understand both schools well and appreciate their unique strengths.
“The vision now is to further increase opportunities for our children and sustain our positive outcomes by celebrating what makes childhood so special, including opportunities to learn through play, regular access to outdoor learning and embedding a love of reading in every child.”
She had high praise for Elevate Multi Academy Trust, which the schools joined in 2024.
“They are amazing to work with,” she said. “We are working closely with other schools in the trust, sharing expertise and best practice.
“In particular, we are collaborating with the Trust to enhance our Early Years environment and provision.
“Reception year sets the tone for the rest of children’s learning so we’re passionate about making this the best it can be. These are exciting times for both schools.”