Ocean Academy in Poole has appointed Colleen Duggan as its new Principal.

Her appointment comes following last year’s promotion of Loren Tharme to lead Bournemouth’s Livingstone Academy.

Colleen, who has been teaching for fourteen years, was previously the Head of School at Waterside Primary Academy in Chesham.

“This is my first post as Principal,” says Colleen, “and I’m very excited to be here. I was looking for a school that was warm and welcoming with very high expectations for the children and that’s exactly what I found at Ocean.

“The Aspirations principles of self-worth, engagement and purpose are lived and breathed here, they’re not just words on a wall. When I met Jo Quarrie, who’s the Executive Principal, and her amazing staff it was clear that we shared the same vision.

“Everybody here is looking to offer the pupils all sorts of learning opportunities both within the curriculum and outside it.”

Colleen brings with her a wealth of experience in teaching and learning, and in raising pupil attainment: “I’m very driven when it comes to what we want for our pupils’ futures, and that means pushing for progress whilst ensuring the children are happy.

“Happy children will learn! I’m looking forward to getting to know the staff, pupils and their families, and establishing myself in the local community.”

Ocean Academy is part of the Aspirations Academies Trust which places a strong emphasis on applied learning, where children are encouraged to apply their knowledge to real world contexts.

The ‘No Limits’ curriculum developed by the Trust ensures students are equipped with the power skills of problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration and creativity. In its most recent Ofsted report personal development, behaviour and welfare were all judged to be outstanding.

Executive Principal, Jo Quarrie commented: “Ocean Academy has developed a really positive reputation within the community and the dedication of the staff, children and parents has ensured that not only are our academic results high, but that our children thrive to reach their full potential through a fun and varied curriculum.

“We are really excited to welcome Mrs Duggan to the Ocean Academy family as a Principal who has aligned values and the drive and passion to enable all of our children to succeed.”

As for the move from her home in Watford to Poole, Colleen is enthusiastic: “My parents moved down to Christchurch eight years ago and over that time we’ve fallen in love with this part of the world. I love walking on Mudeford Quay and I’ve even taken up paddle boarding!”

• https://www.aspirationsacademies.org/

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