Darren Singh – Executive Headteacher
I am the incredibly proud Executive Headteacher at Meadowcroft School. With my extensive experience working with children who have mild to profound learning difficulties of varying kinds and causes, I do my upmost to ensure the students at our school reach their full potentials; this means emotionally, mentally, behaviourally, and academically.
I am wholeheartedly committed to helping children address the underlying barriers that prevent them from participating fully in education. Further still, I pride myself in supporting and encouraging my staff team to grow and progress; doing this, requires that I lead by example to demonstrate the level of attention and care our young pupils deserve.
Noreen Cheema – Head of School
I have always placed great emphasis on academic success. Pupils at Meadowcroft are encouraged and supported to be the best they can be. I believe in a ‘can do culture’ and that good attitudes to learning will lead to success. It is important that young people in our school community are enthusiastic, happy and successful learners, ready to move onto the next stage of their lives. Put simply we want to create lifelong learners, who are able to respond to a changing world.
Pupils feel safe and supported at Meadowcroft School. There is a calm, warm and purposeful atmosphere and it is a special place to be. Pupils have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities to help them become fully rounded individuals, including clubs, external visits, DoE, football clubs and College visits.
Sadie Appleyard – Assistant Headteacher
I am the Assistant Headteacher for the Primary Phase. I have been a teacher for 12 years, with experience in a variety of settings. I have worked with all primary age ranges from nursery level to year 6. I have worked alongside a range of outside agencies within the Wakefield area. Previously I was a Specialist Leader in Education for Early Years and Phonics. I am a firm believer in setting high expectations in all our children. There is nothing our children cannot achieve. Children need a fun, engaging and accessible education, ensuring we meet their short- and long-term targets.
Nicola Browning – Assistant Headteacher
I have always been passionate about the difference education makes to children and young people, particularly the disadvantaged. Meadowcroft School really is a special place to work, with incredible pupils placed at the heart of everything we do. I am privileged to work in collaboration with parents, carers, outside professionals, specialist teachers and therapeutic practitioners to ensure that we have a holistic approach to each child and young person within our school.
I have an extensive background within special education, working within a range of special schools and alternative provisions. This experience allows me to develop bespoke and personalised approaches to education; ensuring that every young person has access to a high quality curriculum which meets their individual needs and aspirations.
Jonathan Czternastek – Assistant Headteacher
I’ve been part of developing the ethos and vision for Meadowcroft School, having been part of the team since 2012! I’ve helped our young people achieve pretty impressive aspirations, such as reaching St James’ Palace, having attained their Gold Level Duke of Edinburgh award. I’ve also developed a bespoke Physical Education curriculum based around individualised special education needs of our young learners.
Donna Howard – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
I have a wealth of experience working with the most vulnerable people throughout my region. I am passionate about continually maintaining the safety and wellbeing of everyone I work with! My previous roles have included working within the education department of the HM Prison Service, as well as Residential Care services. My positivity, attitude and commitment us something I channel into the team I manage.
Sarah Fisher – Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
I have over 10 years experience working with the most vulnerable individuals. During my time at Meadowcroft I have worked in different positions from TA to FLO and then onto DSL.
I have a passion to creating a positive safe environment in order for our young people to thrive and ensuring their health and well-being is paramount for everyone!
Ann Cleasby – Business Manager
I started my career at Meadowcroft over 7 years ago and it soon became apparent that this was the place for me. I have seen many of the young people grow over the years and become amazing young adults. I like to make myself available to spend time with the young people on a daily basis and all the staff at Meadowcroft are clearly making a difference.