Leadership Team

My name is Pete Hales and I am delighted to be Head Teacher of Willow Primary Academy. I have been teaching since 2002 and I have worked in schools in Birmingham and Gloucestershire. I was Head Teacher at my previous school since April 2014 and helped support the school on its journey to a Good Ofsted rating. My educational philosophy is ‘What is the impact on the children?’ When I make a decision I always consider that question. Our new school dog, Nico, accompanies me to school every day and I am sure he will be great hit amongst the children, staff, parents and wider community.

I have three children at home including two who are adopted and I love spending time with my family. I also love football and am an avid supporter of Liverpool Football Club and have an extensive knowledge of their history.

My name is Mandy Walton and I am Head of the Piper Centre, our Specialist Resource Centre. I have been working in education, special and mainstream Early Years settings and schools for many years as a Speech and Language Therapist and Teacher.
I am passionate about supporting our children to develop successful ways to communicate so that their wishes are heard.
I love storytelling and reading. I am determined that every child has access to books that they enjoy and can engage with, whatever their interest and ability.
I am excited to be working with our children, families and carers to support them to reach their personal and academic potential.
It is a privilege to be part of each child’s journey, supporting them as they discover and develop their passions and interests in life.