OUR PATCH SEPTEMBER 2016
TALKING HEADS
One of the most successful schools in the borough , Brackenbury primary , has a new head at the helm when class starts on September 7 . Dave Collins has taken over from Jackie Roberts . It is the 36-year-old ’ s second headship , having run a school in Yateley , Hampshire , for six years .
His background is intriguing ; he was a special in the police force . Any youngsters expecting the new head to be a soft touch may need a rethink .
Brackenbury , in Dalling Road , W6 , is Dave ’ s biggest professional challenge , not least because he last worked in an inner-city school when he was training .
It ’ s a job he ’ s relishing . “ I applied as I really like the atmosphere ,” he said .
“ It is such a diverse school ; far more diverse than the school I ’ m currently at . “ When you walk in you can tell it ’ s creative , with lots of talent in arts , sport and music . You know it ’ s purposeful , and that the children are happy .”
Dave , who moved to Twickenham in January , knows how much sport means to Brackenbury , and is determined to build on its rich sporting heritage .
The school invariably features in the late stages of the Mayor ’ s Cup primary school football tournament , regularly lifting both boys ’ and girls ’ trophies as well as the borough ’ s cricket cups .
SPORTING TRADITION “ They love their sport here , and that also drew me ,” he said . “ You sense the passion for sport , arts , music and academic work ; it ’ s an all-round school .” Dave went to the summer fair , has met most of the staff , and has been impressed by the supportive parents .
His partner is a property manager , but the couple have no children . He laughed at the question , pointing out that he already has 500 to look after !
His specialisms are English , computing and assessment .
Brackenbury , with its proud roots in the Victorian era , has spent the last few weeks undergoing major refurbishment ,
CALL ME DAVE
Brackenbury Primary ' s new head is a former police special who is determined to build on the school ' s sporting excellence , writes Tim Harrison
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