Welcome from the Principal

A very warm welcome to the Open Academy

I am delighted to have joined this wonderful community as Principal, and to feel the privilege — and the responsibility — of helping to lead Open Academy into its next exciting chapter.

Throughout my career, I have been struck time and again by the transformative power of education. It does not simply build knowledge; it builds courage. It helps young people discover who they are, what they are capable of, and how much further they can go than they ever imagined.

That is what drew me to The Open Academy. I saw a school full of young people with real potential, a staff body committed to them, and a community that genuinely cares. I also found a school with a clear and beautiful sense of purpose — rooted in our Christian faith and captured in the words of our vision: Courage in every step, faith in every journey.

Those words come to life for me in Matthew 14, when Jesus walks across stormy waters towards his frightened disciples and says simply: "Take courage. Do not be afraid — I am here." Peter hears those words and steps out of the boat. Not because the storm has stopped, but because he chooses faith over fear.

I believe that is exactly what we are asking of our young people every day — and what we are asking of ourselves as a community. Raising ambition, reaching for something better, believing that a brighter future is genuinely within reach: these things take courage. The storms of life are real, and many in our community know that more than most. But so is the hope — and so is the promise that no one has to face it alone.

Our values of Aspiration, Perseverance, and Respect are not simply words on a wall — they are the daily practice of that belief. We aspire because faith calls us to believe in what is possible. We persevere because we know that struggle is part of the journey, not the end of it. And we respect one another because every person here — student, staff, family — carries inherent worth and dignity.

We are a community that welcomes everyone, whatever your background, faith, or starting point. What matters most is that every young person who comes through our doors feels seen, valued, and equipped to flourish.

I joined this community knowing that, like Peter, we are all stepping out in faith — trusting that through humility, hard work, and care for one another, we can shape something truly special here. I am committed to ensuring that every child thrives academically, personally, and socially, leaving school with the confidence and character to make a positive difference in the world.

Whether you are a current parent, a prospective family, or simply curious about who we are, I warmly invite you to come and visit. I look forward to walking this journey together with you.

Courage in every step, faith in every journey.

Dan Bagshaw

Principal