STAFF at Chantlers Primary School have been handpicked for top roles supporting struggling schools and training new teachers.

Head teacher Mr Philip Barlow is one of 75 head teachers nationwide to be appointed to the role of national leader of education.

Mr Barlow’s role, along with staff in his school, will be to use his knowledge and experience to provide additional leadership capability in other schools in need of support.

The support that the Chantlers Primary School staff will provide will vary depending on the needs of other schools.

Mr Barlow said: “I am passionate about school improvement and giving all pupils everywhere opportunities to grow and develop. This opportunity allows Chantlers to share its practice with others, whilst still continuing to improve ourselves.

“I would like to thank the whole team as this is very much a whole school effort for their support, hard work and dedication.”

Roger Pope, Chair of the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL), said: “I’d like to congratulate Mr Barlow and Chantlers Primary school on being appointed as a national leader of education and national support school. They should be very proud of this achievement.

“National leaders of education are at the heart of school improvement. They’re supporting other schools and developing the next generation of leaders. At NCTL, we want to do all we can to support their work.”