Grace Academy Solihull Appoints New Principal

Darren Gelder, the new Principal at Grace Academy Solihull, has announced plans to review the curriculum and re-organise the Academy.

Mr Gelder, who has a background in working with schools to raise their performance, joined Grace Academy Solihull from Bexhill High where he was Head of School.

His previous roles also include leading change at schools in Grimsby and Skegness, as well as leading on Teaching and Learning across Lincolnshire.

Working closely with Jamie Clarke, the new Chief Executive Officer of Grace Academy Trust, Mr Gelder said he aims to ensure the best possible education for students, and added:

“I passionately and firmly believe that education is the biggest key to changing lives. I’ve seen this in my own life, and with many of the students I have taught in the past.

“It is great to see them achieving their potential, seeing their life choices realised, and setting up businesses, getting jobs, and going to university.

“I was attracted to Grace Academy because it has a real family ethos, caring and supportive staff, and enthusiastic students who want to learn and do well.

“Grace Academy is the hub of our local community in Chelmsley Wood and offers extra curricular courses and seminars to enrich the lives and learning of our students and their families.

“My role is to build on these positives, by focusing on teaching and learning, reviewing the curriculum, and helping to improve the individual attainment and progress of students.

“Every member of staff is committed to ensuring students make great progress, are confident in what they are doing, and want us to remain at the centre of this vibrant community.”

New Year 7 students at Grace Academy Solihull were greeted by Mr Gelder at a Foundation Day Assembly held at the start of their first term at school.

Louise Hayes, Year 7 student at Grace Academy, said:

“I think Grace Academy is the best school ever, way better than primary school.”

Explaining what it was like when they first started, Aliyah Thompson, Year 7 student at Grace Academy, said:

“At first I did feel nervous, but I don’t anymore. The school is really big, but I know that I will be okay. I can’t wait to start the lessons, especially history, literacy and science.”