Charlton School

Dear Parent / Carer,

As we approach the end of the academic year, we are writing to inform you of a change to the leadership of the school from September 2024.

Mr McNaughton has successfully navigated the academy to its current successful position through his strong leadership and determination for each and every child to succeed. Charlton not only received a strong Ofsted outcome last May, but the lived experiences of its students are amazing and an area of intense pride for the trust and the staff of Charlton.

After 8 years of leading the academy, the Learning Community Trust (LCT) has approached Mr McNaughton to support them in their development as it grows rapidly into one of the most successful multi-academy trusts both locally and nationally.  Initially, the LCT has approached Mr McNaughton to work for the trust weekly on a Tuesday and Wednesday, leading for them on several key areas such as safeguarding, which is and always will remain a key priority.

The LCT recognises that being without a Principal for 2 days per week is not sustainable for a school and as a result, Mr Bradnick-Thompson, currently an LCT Associate Principal, will act as Co-Principal alongside Mr McNaughton for the academic year. 

Whilst Mr McNaughton will retain overall responsibility and accountability for the school, Mr Bradnick-Thompson will be fulfilling the duties of the Principal every Tuesday and Wednesday.  In addition, he will add further value to the academy and complete several projects within Charlton to support continued school improvement.  

The LCT sees this change as an exciting time for Charlton School and would like to reassure the school community that this type of leadership model is widely used across the country as academies expand alongside their trusts. I know that Mr McNaughton will work tirelessly alongside Mr Bradnick-Thompson to enable a seamless transition and working relationship for students, staff and our families.  To support this change, Mr Bradnick-Thompson will be onsite at Charlton every Wednesday between now and the end of term.

Yours Faithfully,

Mr Paul Roberts                                                                        Mr Rob Hewer

Executive Director                                                                     Chair of Governors

Learning Community Trust                                                         Charlton School