New appointment for the
Island Innovation Trust schools

Mrs Judith Richardson has been appointed to oversee the federation of Newport’s
two new secondary schools opening in September 2011. She will also oversee the integration of the pupils and staff from the closing Medina and Carisbrooke Highs and the middle schools that will transfer pupils to the new secondary’s. Judith’s wide-ranging career includes headship of a Bolton secondary school and working as an HM Inspector of Schools for Ofsted. She has also worked in the aerospace industry and was an assistant director for Somerset County Council where her duties included leading the
change from a three-tier to a two-tier system of schools. Mark Price, Island Innovation Trust chair, said “We are absolutely delighted with the appointment. Trustees firmly believe we have the right person to lead Newport’s two secondary schools and to achieve the high standard of education our young people deserve. Judith’s depth of experience will be vital to achieve our vision. Judith said, “The Isle of Wight Council
has shown its resolve by ‘biting the bullet’ in moving to a two-tier system. I believe the federated schools, through the trust, can make a significant impact on standards in
Newport and beyond. This is a very exciting opportunity to improve the outcomes for children and young people.”