Priti Patel, Member of Parliament for Witham, recently visited Templars Academy to meet with Headteacher Mr Nick Hancock and to see first-hand the new learning initiatives being implemented to support pupils’ learning and development across the school.
Templars Academy, which serves a wide community of more than 400 children, is currently focused on a programme of rapid improvement aimed at enhancing academic achievement and pupils’ personal development, with a focus on ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
During the visit, Priti and Mr Hancock discussed the school’s priorities, including strengthening phonics teaching through the school’s Little Wandle scheme, developing a progressive English writing curriculum, enhancing the wider curriculum through strong subject leadership, and introducing a consistent behaviour approach throughout the school.
Priti also heard more about the school’s developing Personal Development offer, designed to provide additional support for disadvantaged pupils and ensure all children are given the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.
The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of supporting schools as they continue working to raise standards, strengthen opportunities for pupils, and deliver high-quality education for families across the constituency.
Speaking after the visit, Priti said:
“Schools across the Witham constituency are doing fantastic work to support pupils and their work to raise standards, which is why I was delighted to visit Templars Academy and meet with Headteacher Nick Hancock to hear more about the school’s ambitious plans for improvement.
“It was particularly encouraging to hear about the strong focus being placed on phonics teaching, developing writing skills, strengthening the wider curriculum, and ensuring pupils are supported through a clear and consistent approach to behaviour and personal development.
“I was also pleased to hear more about the school’s commitment to supporting disadvantaged pupils and ensuring every child is given the opportunity to succeed and fulfil their potential in a positive learning environment.
“Schools continue to face significant challenges and pressures, particularly around funding and long-term planning, and I will continue working closely with schools across the constituency to support the delivery of high-quality education for all pupils.”
