Welcome from the Chair of The BOARD OF TRUSTEEs, nICK wRIGHT
On behalf of the Trustees, welcome to The Bridge Academy.
I am proud to Chair of the Board of Trustees of this truly exceptional school. I am fortunate to be working with such a strong Governing Body comprising skilled, experienced and committed individuals including parents and members with deep knowledge of the local community. Our role is to set the strategic direction of the Academy, and to support and complement the skills of the Principal, teachers and staff to deliver on our mission of ensuring every student receives not only an excellent academic education but real world knowledge, skills and experiences to help them thrive in whatever they choose to do when they leave school and become fully committed citizens of tomorrow.
This holistic approach, with its emphasis on building character, confidence, creative skills, as well as academic attainment, is designed to create an environment which drives achievement, cultivates success and inspires our students about the exciting possibilities ahead of them. In doing so we aim to not only transform their lives but also help unlock the huge potential and ambition of the community of which the school and our students are a central part.
How do we do this? We take responsibility for the strategic development of the school by monitoring progress, by challenging the school leadership team to maintain the excellent conduct, ethos, and performance expected at Bridge and by ensuring resources are spent wisely. We are fortunate to have Mr Brown as our excellent Principal who brings exceptional dynamic and passionate leadership to the Academy.
Bridge is also differentiated by its partnership with UBS, a firm which provides financial services to private, corporate and institutional clients. UBS founded the school over fifteen years ago as part of its long-term vision to raise educational standards in Hackney. Through a combination of employee volunteer time and financial resource, the partnership has a hugely positive impact on student achievements, attainment and personal development. Students benefit from unique opportunities and links with professionals and specialists, and 'real-life' insights that broaden horizons and enhance the curriculum beyond that which can normally be offered by a school. For example, mentoring and teaching support in Mathematics and Music, the Academy's specialisms; IT experts and digital technology; preparation for the world of work through work experience and apprenticeships; and the financing of a dedicated career advisor. UBS also funds the Place2Be counselling service at Bridge as it recognises the emotional and mental well-being of students is critical to ensuring that they thrive. Through the partnership, we are also developing closer working with our local Primary schools.
It is a privilege to be Chair of the Board of Trustees at The Bridge Academy, to work with a devoted team who are truly committed to sharing their expertise and experience in helping to guide our school forward. On these pages of the Academy website you can find out more information about the school, the Trustees and the work that we do, and we can always be contacted through the school office by emailing the PA to the Principal: Tracey.Bannister@bridgeacademy.hackney.sch.uk or by telephone: 020 7749 5256.
It is my personal belief borne out by my own experience that a great education is the passport to a better life and brings about an improved future. It is the best investment of resources imaginable. Bridge is a wonderful Academy and all of us who serve as Governors are immensely proud of the tremendous achievements of its students and staff. We would like to thank parents for their interest in supporting and maintaining our strong partnership with the local community. We wish your child every success and happiness and will do all in our power to ensure it really is a "Bridge" to their future.