them directly in the selection process,” explained Marlene Harrison-Jones, White Spire's Chair of Governors.

 

“Four members of the student council held their own interview panel for the final candidates, and quizzed them about how they would run the school, then passed their comments on to the selection panel. Their views were very insightful,” said Marlene.

 

Other children at the all-age school for children with moderate learning difficulties were asked to sum up what they would like from a new head teacher. One pupil said they wanted a head ‘who understands special needs problems’. One wanted a head who ‘understands why we are at this school and won’t treat us as dumb,’ and another said: ‘They should be happy, not grumpy!’.

 

Mrs Penicud, who previously worked at a special school in Hertfordshire, said she was looking forward to getting to know all of White Spire’s 140 students, who range from primary age up to 19 years old.

 

NEW HEAD GETS SPECIAL WELCOME

 

Students at White Spire School had a supersized hello for their new head teacher.

 

Maria Penicud took up her post at the Bletchley special school after the Easter Break - and was greeted by pupils holding up a ‘welcome’ banner made in an art lesson.

 

“The children have a special reason to be pleased by the new appointment, as we involved them directly in the selection process,” explained Marlene Harrison-Jones, White Spire's Chair of Governors.

 

“Four members of the student council held their own interview panel for the final candidates, and quizzed them about how they would run the school, then passed their comments on to the selection panel. Their views were very insightful,” said Marlene.

 

Other children at the all-age school for children with moderate learning difficulties were asked to sum up what they would like from a new head teacher. One pupil said they wanted a head ‘who understands special needs problems’. One wanted a head who ‘understands why we are at this school and won’t treat us as dumb,’ and another said: ‘They should be happy, not grumpy!’.

 

Mrs Penicud, who previously worked at a special school in Hertfordshire, said she was looking forward to getting to know all of White Spire’s 140 students, who range from primary age up to 19 years old.

She said: "We are working as a team, committed to ensuring that every pupil receives an education that enables them to attain the highest levels of achievement possible. You will discover a school that has created a stimulating, fun learning environment, a relevant and challenging curriculum, and an active partnership with parents and the communities in which our pupils live, work and play. A  place to build dreams."