New Market Harborough school head unveiled

The headteacher who will be taking the helm at a new specialist school in Market Harborough has been named as Emma Williams.

Aurora Brampton Valley School, in Roman Way, is due to open in autumn 2026 and is expected to provide education for up to 80 autistic children and young people aged 5 to 19.

Emma brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked across mainstream, alternative provision and specialist education settings. Before entering teaching, she worked as an analytical chemist for Boots manufacturing before discovering a passion for education through volunteering in a local school.

Her career has since taken her through schools serving communities across Nottinghamshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and beyond.

Speaking about the opportunity to lead the school, Emma said it was a “once-in-a-career opportunity” to help create a new school from the ground up with a clear vision and purpose. She said she’s excited to create a welcoming school community where every pupil feels valued and able to succeed.

Emma and her team are currently preparing for the school’s opening, with staff recruitment progressing well and plans in place for training ahead of welcoming pupils.

She said: “We’ve a fantastic opportunity to create a school where young people can develop academically, socially and emotionally. I am excited to build a community that celebrates individuality, helps pupils develop confidence and communication skills, and prepares them for happy and successful futures.

“There’s definitely a need for a specialist school such as ours in the area and we’re seeing a great deal of interest from SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) placement commissioning teams at Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council and neighbouring local authorities.”