By Hannah Corken

Copyright grimsbytelegraph

A new headteacher needs no introduction – he has dedicated his whole working life to the school he now leads. Dan Ellerby accepted the role at The St Lawrence Academy in Scunthorpe in July and is looking forward to welcoming visitors to its Open Evening for Years 5 and 6 next Tuesday, September 23. He is “immensely proud” to take the reins, almost two decades after starting as a newly qualified teacher (NQT) at the popular Doncaster Road school. “I understand this community,” he said. “That’s not just because I’ve worked here all my working life, but I have family who own businesses right in the heart of the town. I am so passionate about this community and it is the thing that has kept me here.” Originally from Brigg , Dan attended Sir John Nelthorpe School before taking A-levels at John Leggott College. He went to Leeds Metropolitan University to study Sports Science, unsure about his future career. A year coaching “soccer” in California sparked his interest in working with young people and a desire to be a teacher. His training period took him to what was then known as High Ridge School, the predecessor to The St Lawrence Academy. Little did he know that, 18 years later, he would be making a presentation to Open Evening visitors as headteacher. “I was offered the NQT post after that year’s training. “Since then, I’ve been fortunate to have many different career progression opportunities. I love the school and the community and have never wanted to leave.” Chief Executive Officer at The St Lawrence Academies Trust Mike Adnitt, a former headteacher to the school, was delighted Dan had accepted the role. “I’ve worked with Dan for many years and seen his progression as a person and as a leader,” he said. “This is the right time for him to step up as headteacher and I was delighted to offer him the role. Anybody who knows him is aware of his passion for the community. The appointment gives the academy stability moving forward.” Dan’s focus is on the school’s mission of “treasuring everyone and transforming the community”. “Children get one shot at education and it is our job to ensure they get the very best experience,” he said. “There is no reason why the children in this community cannot go on and achieve whatever they want to.” Improved GCSE results this summer provided evidence that the school was on the right track. “We have a positive, vibrant learning environment and, when people come around, they will feel the enthusiasm and passion of our dedicated staff and meet current students who are thriving,” said Dan. “On the academic front, our Attainment 8 figure showed students, on average, were achieving half a grade higher across all subjects. We had 18.6% of grades at 7 to 9, above the Yorkshire and Humber average and the most we have had. “We also saw an increase in the number of students achieving passes in English and Maths from the previous year. “But while the academic measure is important, it is just one measure. “We are giving students the experiences, skills, knowledge and confidence to go on and achieve whatever they want to do in their next stage of education and in life. Our personal development of young people is exceptional. “Visitors on the Open Evening will hear about more than 20 weekly enrichment clubs. Our Combined Cadet Force is the largest school-based CCF in the country. “We’re one of the only ones expanding to offer Navy places, in addition to Army and Air Force. More than 80 students in Years 8 to 11 are part of the programme. “Visitors will also hear about our 153 students on our leadership programme to ensure they are developing the qualities they will need in the future. We are also launching a new trips and enrichment programme across all year groups which will include national and international travel.” Did you know you can get all the latest Scunthorpe headlines sent straight to your inbox for free? All you have to do is click this link and we’ll update you on all the latest stories as they happen. Tolerance and respect were crucial aspects of school life. “The rise of social media has been accompanied by an increase in negativity and a decline in mutual tolerance. “Part of our job, particularly as a church school, is to support students to understand different cultures and beliefs. Our students respect and understand those differences, the importance of living well together, and being good role models. “It is exciting to see students follow their dreams and I am really proud that I have seen young people from here go on and have wonderful careers on a national and international stage. However, it is also important those who want to stay or come back to this community thrive because of their experiences at this school. “We have former students locally who are working in law, have become doctors and nurses or have good trades, some working at the steel works, which is a huge part of this town’s heritage. I am just looking forward to visitors hearing about our aims and ambitions at the Open Evening, ensuring they have an informed decision to make around the best secondary for their child.” Next Tuesday’s event starts at 4.30pm and ends at 7pm, with Dan speaking at 4:30pm and 5:30pm.