Published: Tuesday 16 March 2021
Kensington and Chelsea’s new dedicated school for children with autism and additional needs has appointed an experienced educator as its first head.
Andy Nowak will take charge as Head of School at Kensington Queensmill before the school’s opening in September this year. He joins from his current role as Deputy Head of Queensmill School in Shepherd’s Bush.
Mr Nowak brings years of experience in teaching and leadership roles in special schools and autism-specific settings and has pursued a Masters in Special Education and served as a visiting lecturer on autism and inclusion at the University of Roehampton.
He has also supported the development of educational legislation, resource and practice for disabled young people in Sierra Leone.
Kensington Queensmill is currently under construction off Barlby Road in North Kensington as part of a £36.5 million investment from Kensington and Chelsea Council which includes redeveloped premises for neighbouring Barlby Primary School.
Andy Nowak, Head of School at Kensington Queensmill, said:
“The opportunity to develop a local, outstanding special school in fantastic purpose-built facilities is unique and I cannot wait to welcome our first cohort of children in September.
“I have no doubt that they and the school will be a wonderful asset to the community and I look forward to working in partnership with everyone in Kensington and Chelsea to secure aspirational outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.”
Cllr Josh Rendall, Kensington and Chelsea Council’s Lead Member for Family and Children’s Services, said:
“Having witnessed this state-of-the-art school taking shape in our borough, it’s fantastic to welcome Andy Nowak on board ahead of the first term in September.
“We can rest assured that pupils will not only have modern, world-class facilities in their classrooms but also strong experienced leadership to guide them through these vital years of their lives. We really can’t wait to welcome the first group of pupils."
Freddie Adu, Head of Kensington Queensmill sponsor Queensmill School, said:
“As excited as we are about the excellent progress of the new build, we are just as delighted at appointing Andy Nowak as Head of School.
“Andy will be able to hit the ground running, with his exceptional knowledge of autism, tremendous ability to form relationships with children and excellent professional relationships with colleagues in nearby schools. We couldn’t ask for more.”
A consultation into Kensington Queensmill is running until 26 March. Members of the public can have their say by completing the survey or emailing [email protected]