A COLWYN Bay head teacher has been chosen to become an associate of the National Academy for Educational Leadership.

Tania Rickard, of Ysgol T Gwynn Jones, is one of 12 new associates from across Wales who’ve been appointed to the prestigious role and will be working with the Academy over the next few years to support its programme of activity.

The aim of the Academy is to work with partners from across the system to provide strategic support for those in current leadership roles, as well as providing encouragement and inspiration for those who wish to pursue a leadership career in education.

Tania Rickard said: “Having been a head teacher for more than 12 years in two contrasting schools, one rural as a teaching head and one urban as a non teaching head, I’ve learned of the importance of staff having effective leadership skills.

“I’m honoured to have become an associate of the Academy and my vision is to help build an education system that helps our pupils by ensuring all members of staff are valued and given professional learning opportunities to reach and exceed their potential.”