Principal appointment: Parkwood Academy, Sheffield

E-ACT has appointed Mike Westerdale as the new Principal of Parkwood Academy, Sheffield.

Mr Westerdale, currently Senior Vice Principal at Archbishop Sentamu Academy, will take up his new role from 1 September 2010, replacing current Principal, Chris Mallaband, who is leaving to take up a new post in London.

As the new Principal, Mr Westerdale will be working closely with his new colleagues, parents and students, to further develop the transformation of Parkwood into a locally and nationally recognised Academy.

He started his teaching career in September 1990 and includes deputy and interim headships, said: “It will be a privilege and pleasure to take over the leadership of such an exciting and vibrant academy.  I’m passionate about delivering excellence in education, and reducing barriers to learning.  I want Parkwood Academy to be an outward-facing academy at the heart of the community it serves - a true ‘learning village’ providing the aspiration, service and achievement the community deserves.  ‘A local Academy for local people’.”

Sir Bruce Liddington, Director General of E-ACT, and Chairman of the panel that appointed Mr Westerdale said: “I am delighted with the decision to appoint Mike to lead Parkwood Academy.  He has demonstrated the necessary attributes and qualities to further drive improvement at the academy.”

E-ACT’s Parkwood Academy will move to its new purpose-built academy building in September 2012.