Top marks for Thornton teacher trio

7:40am Saturday 19th July 2008

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A Thornton school is at the ‘head of the class’ after three members of staff qualified to be headteachers at the same time.

Chris Ronan, Janette Webster and Mark Kilmurray from Millfield Science and Performing Arts College all celebrated their achievement of a prestigious headship qualification last week.

The ambitious trio gained the National Professional Qualification for Headship, (NPQH), a certificate that is mandatory for those applying to their first headship role.

Chris Ronan, one of the successful teachers from Millfield, said: “The fact that three of us qualified at the same time shows the commitment of the school to the professional development of staff.

“The motto of the school is Success For All and I think that message is carried over to the staff.

“Having better qualified teachers can only be of benefit to Millfield.”

The teachers spent around 18 months working towards the qualification, with a series of tough assignments and assessments along the way.

Jonathan Hewitt, acting head of the Lancashire school effectiveness service, said: “It is important to recognise the achievement of talented local teachers who have gained this qualification. It is encouraging that so many of the most recent graduates are preparing to take on leadership jobs in the future.

“As these committed and talented teachers become heads, young people across Lancashire will continue to benefit.”