Research School Network: Lisa Hesmondhalgh

I have been Principal at Peover Superior Endowed Primary School since September 2013. Peover is very small, rural school in the heart of Cheshire and headship has been a diverse and challenging role. As well as a regular teaching commitment across all ages, I am also a Local Leader of Education and a newly appointed Evidence Lead in Education for the Aspirer Research School.

Using evidence informed practice, the school has moved from Special Measures in January 2014 to Outstanding in November 2017.

As Principal, I ensure that all the staff at Peover Superior are fully drenched in opportunities to learn and develop their practice, using a sound evidence base. The team work collaboratively with other schools to share good practice and carry out our own research trials.

I also support other schools outside of the Aspire Educational Trust and I am one of the project Leads for the Aspirer ​‘Write Across’ Project, which utilises my subject passion for reading and writing.

Previously I worked in a large primary school in Wigan as Assistant Head teacher, working across each Primary Phase from Year 1 to Year 6. I also have experience of working with children with complex special educational needs in a specialist setting. I was one of the very first Advanced Skills Teachers for primary education in Wigan.

As well as English, my specialist strengths lie in music and performing arts; I have enjoyed leading many school productions, choirs and music ensembles over the years – a tradition which now continues to grow at Peover Superior Endowed Primary School.

In my free time, I like to keep fit and I relish a challenge. I really enjoy being outdoors; being a keen mountain-biker and winter sports lover. I am also a keen musician: I play the piano, flute and several other musical instruments.