Newman College head praised as he steps down

The head of a Chadderton school plagued with building issues departed from his post with his head held high on Friday.

In a moving tribute to Glyn Potts MBE, prefects from Newman College created snippets of video of his time at the Broadway school. 

In an emotional message posted on X, formerly Twitter, he said: “Today’s snap message is a huge thank you.  

“A huge thank you to all the amazing students who have been a part of Newman College both now and previously and who will arrive in the future.  

“To all the staff who work incredibly hard and the parents who give us nothing but fantastic support.  

“I am very disappointed to be stepping away, but it is right for me. I wish the college the very best for the future and thank you for the great privilege of being a part of something that is much bigger than one individual person.” 

Mr Potts announced his resignation in January, in a letter sent home to parents by the school chair of governors, Mr John Cassin.  

Mr Cassin said, at the time, that this was not an easy decision for Mr Potts and that he had kept him informed of the many challenges surrounding this decision from the start. 

He praised Mr Potts unwavering dedication and commitment for many years to not only the school but to the wider Oldham town. 

Mr Cassin acknowledged that Mr Potts leadership was instrumental in guiding the college to its current position of strength. 

In the previous letter, he said: “We are disappointed to lose him but know the wider staffing and culture of the college will see us through this transition. 

“Newman is lucky to be fully staffed and despite significant financial challenges in education is still able to give students opportunities far beyond other schools. 

“The building still causes challenges but through hard work and a relentless pursuit towards accountability, Mr Potts has secured funding to provide modular classrooms of the highest standards, thus reducing the impact of any leaks or partial closures.” 

In a letter to parents on Friday, the governing body expressed their sincere gratitude and heartfelt farewell to Mr Potts as he embarks on his next chapter. 

They said: “His leadership and dedication to our school community have been truly invaluable, and we are deeply appreciative of everything he has done during his time as headteacher, and especially during the many challenges he has been presented with along the way, such as the Coronavirus, ongoing building failures, and complexities of the academisation process. 

“HIs unwavering commitment to improving student outcomes means the college is now in a stronger position. 

“It would take too long to list all his achievements, but results have improved, student enrichment opportunities are second to none.” 

Meanwhile, Mrs Kerry Phillips has been appointed as the new head of the college and will commence her post after Easter. 

The Emmaus CAT Trust Board of Directors and Central Team, the Diocese of Salford and governing body added: “Following a rigorous recruitment process, Mrs Phillips has secured the substantiative role of headteacher.  

“We would like to wish her every success in this new role and recognise the continued hard work and commitment of all the staff to the pupils and community of Saint John Henry.”