The new headteacher of a special school opening in Romford later this year has spoken of her excitement at the new role.
Catharine Wensley will lead the Unity Romford School when it opens in September for pupils with Social Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, which may include an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis.
When at full capacity, 60 students, aged seven to 16, will attend the school in London Road. In the first year, the school will welcome 32 children.
Ms Wensley said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new headteacher of this much-needed special school for students with social emotional and mental health needs.
“Opening a new school is a huge honour and it is wonderful to see the Unity Romford School coming to fruition. We look forward to welcoming children and their parents as they prepare to start here from September.”
The school has begun advertising and appointing new staff and will be hosting a recruitment evening on Wednesday 29th March at St Edward’s Academy.
Ms Wensley added: “It is a privilege to open a brand-new school in Romford but it will be nothing without the people inside it – both our students, who we welcome in September, and our staff across all roles.
“We want everyone pulling together to create an inspirational and extraordinary educational setting. Being part of a brand-new school from day one is a very special experience and we can’t wait to welcome interested people to our recruitment evening.”
Ms Wensley has 30-years experience in education and has held various curriculum and senior management roles in schools, including deputy headteacher at St Edward’s Academy in Romford, and co-headteacher at the Sir Peter Hall School in Bury St Edmunds, which opened last year.