James Biddulph to be University of Cambridge Primary School's first Headteacher

The new University of Cambridge Primary School is a three-form-entry fully inclusive primary school being established as part of the North West Cambridge Development. The first pupils will begin at the school in September 2015.

In addition to providing an inclusive and high-quality primary education for local children, the University of Cambridge Primary School will also offer unique training and research opportunities, through its close relationship with the Faculties and Departments of the University of Cambridge.

As the first Headteacher, James will play a key role in shaping the school’s character and vision. 

“Our curriculum intends to provide an holistic learning experience, informed by strong values which emphasise equality, compassion, courage, within a community in which everyone’s voice is welcome and valued,”  James said.

James hopes that strong, positive relationships will be found not only within the school but also between the school and the wider family of Cambridge primary schools, the Faculty of Education and the University as a whole.

James first realised that he wanted to teach as a career while travelling and working in Nepal. On his return to the UK he enrolled in the University of Cambridge’s PGCE course, attracted by its focus on creativity in professional practice.

Since graduation James has worked in several challenging schools in London, gaining Advanced Skills Teacher status in his second year of practice, and has become an experienced school leader.

“I applied for this role because I want to be part of a body of professionals eager to raise questions about what we do and how we do it, and finding the best ways through for every child by using our creativity,” James said.

“Our new school’s vision statement is to 'Release the Imagination: celebrating the art of the possible.' I am grateful to the Trust for giving me the opportunity to make that statement a reality, not only for our young people, but for teachers, parents and academics here in Cambridge, in the UK, and beyond.”
           
Professor John Rallison, the University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Chair of the Trust said: “It is a pleasure to welcome James to this exciting new role. His background, his achievement, his vision and his ambition make him extraordinarily well-qualified for leadership of the new school. We look forward to working with him.”

• For more information about the University of Cambridge Primary School, including how to apply for a place, visit: www.universityprimaryschool.org.uk