Meet Ben Wilson, Principal of Upwood Primary Academy

“Experiencing this role within TDET is a huge benefit. It’s incredibly supportive network of expert colleagues allows me to speak to a specialist whenever I need advice or support.”

 

We recently caught up with Ben Wilson, who has spent the past seven years as a proud member of the Thomas Deacon Education Trust and now leads Upwood Primary Academy as its Principal. Anyone who meets Ben will attest to his passion for teaching and leadership. In this interview, he shares his journey, his vision for Upwood Primary and what motivates him both inside and outside the classroom. Ben also highlights the value of collaboration, the importance of community and the benefits of being part of a supportive Trust.

 

 

Can you tell us about your career history?

Teaching was always the profession I was going to venture into. From completing the register with a group of my teddies at home, to setting my brother and cousin extra homework (I was very popular in my family!), I knew this was the career I’d thrive in. I started teaching in 2010 and have worked in a variety of schools across Peterborough and Cambridgeshire, spending the past seven years as a proud member of TDET.

The first five years of my career were spent as a Reception teacher, and this is often the year group you can find me sneaking back into. The philosophy of the early years and approaches to ensuring children grow and develop are exceptional, and something we can all learn from. After this, I taught across all primary age ranges but started to build up a specialism in Key Stage 1 and early reading. I spent many years working hard on developing early reading practice in my own schools, but also across Peterborough in my Local Authority role as a Phonics Champion.

 

 

What are you enjoying about your new role?

Headship was something that I aspired to, and I maximised opportunities to help me build up my leadership capacity. When the interim opportunity arose at Upwood, I knew it just felt right. Upwood is a very special place, and I feel privileged to be leading it through its current chapter. For me, the most enjoyable part of this role is working with colleagues to ensure the very best opportunities are provided for our children. I have an unwavering belief in the potential of people, so being able to work alongside dedicated colleagues and facilitate their development is an honour.

What are the benefits of working for TDET?

Experiencing this role within TDET is a huge benefit. The incredibly supportive network of expert colleagues allows me to speak to a specialist when I need advice or support with something specific. This means I don't become cognitively overloaded, and therefore focus on the right priorities to ensure success at Upwood. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank TDET’s Central Team for their support, as I embark on this current chapter.

 

 

Where do you hope to see Upwood in the future?

In the future, I hope to see a clear vision and mission for Upwood, focusing on its pivotal role within the community and improving outcomes for all learners. We’re currently working on the academy environment so that it reflects high expectations and standards. You’ll hear us refer to ourselves as ‘Upwoodians’, as we continue to build a collaborative community that celebrates its traditions and embraces the unknown. The future is bright for Upwood!

What do you enjoy doing outside work?

Outside of school, I am a proud husband to Leanne, and Dad to Jonah and Isaac. As a family, we enjoy spending time outdoors and can often be found exploring national parks and woodland areas. We also enjoy the odd holiday here and there, trying to explore different places and cultures - particularly places with sunshine and great food. I also enjoy coaching a grassroots football team. It’s great to get to work with children in a different context and to enable them to develop and achieve in their own passions.

Thank you, Ben!

 

You can find out more about Upwood Primary Academy here.