THE new head teacher of St Mary’s, Menston, says he plans to build on the school’s existing significant strengths.

Darren Beardsley was previously head of The Holy Family Catholic High School in Carlton and deputy head teacher of Cardinal Langley Catholic High School in Middleton, Manchester.

Mr Beardsley commented on the high standards of achievement that already exist at St Mary’s as the school celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

He said: “It is a privilege to take up this position as we aim to build on the significant strengths that already exist at the school.

“Central to all that takes place in school are our values based on the teachings of Christ. These values inform all of our policies and practices and a key theme for me in my first year at St Mary’s is to ensure that these values are clearly evident in all interactions that take place in school.

“As a school we aim to recognise the unique talents of every single student. This enables all the young people in our community to make outstanding progress and achieve academic excellence.

“In order to achieve this, we will continue to develop teaching and learning strategies in this academic year, along with reviewing our curriculum and considering ways in which we can improve our reporting and monitoring procedures.”

A 50th anniversary open day is on October 4.