Wanda Noakes begins her second year as Headteacher at Daubeney Primary in Hackney, east London, feeling she has just a few weeks left to turn the school around. Continuing scrutiny from the Hackney Learning Trust, below average Year6 SATs results, and the possibility of an Ofsted inspection keep up the pressure. Wanda begins the session with an INSET day to improve the standard of teaching and learning and encourages staff to adopt a more thematic, creative approach. She also plans to set up a nurture group for children with specific needs. Francine Martin (SENCO) and Increase Eko (AHT) discuss what's involved and how pupils will benefit. Wanda is still dealing with serious staffing issues but enjoys training and is delegating more. Despite limited funds the nurture group goes ahead and a new secure reception area is built. Again stress makes Wanda ill. But good news comes with the final review of the Learning Trust and the children saying they're much happier.

Video Series: New Heads - Primary
Release Date 2006