New principal for Malcolm Arnold Academy in Northampton

The David Ross Education Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Clare Berry as the new principal of Malcolm Arnold Academy in Northampton. Miss Berry will take up the role at the start of the new academic year in September 2024.

Currently interim head at King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls, a top selective school in Birmingham which is rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, Miss Berry has spent over 18 years in leadership roles at the school. This includes responsibility for teaching and learning, curriculum, safeguarding and pastoral care.

Miss Berry also previously worked at a large comprehensive school in Staffordshire where she was both a head of year and head of religious education.

Clare Berry, incoming Principal for Malcolm Arnold Academy, said: “I am honoured and privileged to be appointed and to serve as principal at Malcolm Arnold Academy. I am excited about what the future holds for the academy, its community and the wider DRET family.

“I firmly believe that education has the power to transform lives and it is my mission to ensure that every student who passes through our doors leaves not only with academic achievements but also with a love for learning, confidence and a deep appreciation and respect for other people.

“Malcolm Arnold Academy boasts vibrant extracurricular opportunities, which I aim to not only encourage, but also celebrate and integrate into the fabric of academy life. I believe that participation in extracurricular activities plays a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals and I look forward to watching students compete in sport and develop their musical talents.

“I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, where every member of the academy community will feel valued and empowered to thrive.”

Megan Morris, Executive Principal at Malcolm Arnold Academy, said: “We are delighted to announce Miss Berry’s appointment. Miss Berry will bring a wealth of leadership experience to Malcolm Arnold Academy.

“Miss Berry’s leadership style is characterised by her unwavering commitment, creativity, integrity and high expectations and we cannot wait to welcome her to Malcolm Arnold Academy.”

Mark Neild, Deputy CEO and Director of Secondary Education at DRET, said: “I want to extend a very warm welcome to Miss Berry from the whole DRET family.

“We are all very excited by this appointment. Miss Berry’s clear commitment to academic excellence and her understanding of the importance of enriching extracurricular opportunities makes her a perfect fit for Malcolm Arnold Academy.

“We look forward to working together with Miss Berry to support Malcolm Arnold Academy to go from strength to strength.”