What’s next for our Deputy Trust Lead?

Sarah Karkeek, Deputy Trust Lead

It has been my pleasure to be the Deputy Trust Lead of Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT) since its formation in November 2019. Prior to this I was CEO of Newquay Education Trust, one of the two successful trusts that merged to form CELT. Since that time, it has been my privilege to work alongside Lisa Mannall, our Trust Lead, and all the amazing staff we have in our schools and offices.

Although still a young trust, CELT is a progressive trust focused on working together, across all key stages to ensure that every young person who attends a CELT school has the best chance of reaching their potential, irrespective of their starting point.

The wonderful thing about CELT is that you can start with us as a preschooler and finish ready for university at 18!

I started my career as a secondary school teacher before having children of my own and co-founding, with my husband, a day nursery as there was no local provision for our own children! This developed into a nursery chain, which is now prominent throughout the south west.

In my spare time, I am a National Leader of Governance, having been a governor for over thirty years in a variety of schools – all at different stages of their journey. I have enjoyed training other governors and helping schools who have been struggling. It has been my privilege to work with all age ranges, in small rural schools and in large urban settings.

I am proud to be the first Chair of Governors for the new CELT school, Newquay Primary Academy, which will open in September 2021, just as I retire from my role as Deputy Trust Lead!

Situated in the grounds of Newquay Tretherras, this two-form entry school will grow year-on-year with a reception class joining this year – the class of 2021 will be the first year group in a brand-new school, built to serve the needs of Newquay Town families.

The children will receive a rich, rounded education in a nurturing and stimulating environment under the guidance, and with the support of, our excellent staff:

Craig Hayes – Executive Head

Gemma Wilson – Reception Teacher

Sasha Biggers –Teaching Assistant/ Reception

Tracey Payne – Senior Secretary

Hannah Amos – Office Manager

So, NPA’s staff are all in place, the governing body is in place and we now look forward to working with the children and their families as they start their formal education journey on a site they may not leave until they are eighteen!

Welcome to NPA! Exciting times are ahead of us…