This year, Thrumpton Primary Academy is celebrating an incredible milestone – it’s the 150 year anniversary. It is a great chance to look back on the school’s history and honour the local community. There are plans to create something special to mark this occasion, so future generations can remember the school’s enduring legacy.

During this special year the school has also welcomed a new principal, Sarah Kehler, a passionate and experienced educator with 26 years of teaching and leadership experience.

Since joining Diverse Academies Trust in 2017, Sarah has brought her expertise in maths teaching and leadership to schools across the East Midlands. Her roles have included being a senior leader responsible for maths, assistant principal, and the principal of Samuel Barlow Primary Academy. Sarah has also worked as a mastery specialist with East Midlands Maths Hub since 2014, supporting over 30 schools in improving maths teaching and learning. Most recently, she served as a strategic development lead within the Trust, coaching staff and shaping the maths curriculum to ensure high-quality education for children.

Sarah’s career is marked by achievements that reflect her resilience and commitment to education. Overcoming her own struggles with maths to become a skilled teacher and advocate for others is something she is particularly proud of.

As Principal of Samuel Barlow Primary Academy, she led the school through the challenges of the global pandemic, achieving its first “good” Ofsted rating under her leadership. This accomplishment underscores her determination to ensure children’s safety and continued learning during difficult times.

As principal of Thrumpton Primary Academy, Sarah is committed to building on the school’s successes by continuing to strengthen the community and creating opportunities for children to excel academically and as future citizens.

Sarah said: “One of my priorities for Thrumpton Primary Academy is developing children’s communication skills through a partnership with Voice 21, giving every child the confidence and ability to express themselves effectively in all areas of life. We will ensure that every child makes good or better progress, no matter what challenges they face. With a strong team in place, we are ready to help children become the best they can be.”

Sarah has been touched by the warm welcome from the school community, adding: “There is something truly special about Thrumpton Primary Academy. The team ethos here is inspiring, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”

With Sarah’s leadership and a dedicated team, Thrumpton Primary Academy is ready to honour its history while embracing the future. The school’s 150 year anniversary is not only a celebration of its past but also a promise of exciting opportunities to come for its pupils and community.