: Sally Adams – Head of Exchange Research School

I am privileged to serve as Head of Exchange Research School at Don Valley Academy, where I lead work focused on evidence-informed teacher and leadership development. I am passionate about supporting schools to engage meaningfully with high-quality evidence and research, helping them to make informed decisions about teaching and learning that improve outcomes and life chances for all pupils, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As an experienced primary teacher, I have worked across a diverse range of schools in and around Doncaster, leading school improvement initiatives and supporting the development of teaching assistants, teachers and leaders at both school and trust level. I have facilitated National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) and have extensive experience designing and delivering professional development programmes that help educators translate evidence into effective classroom practice.

Having worked predominantly in Early Years and Key Stage 1, I am deeply committed to ensuring every child receives the strongest possible start to their education. I have a strong interest in the role that high-quality early education plays in narrowing attainment gaps and improving long-term outcomes, and I am passionate about supporting schools and settings to develop evidence-informed approaches in the early years.

Having spent the first six years of my teaching career within the Don Valley pyramid, I know the local community well and understand both its strengths and challenges. It is a privilege to represent Don Valley Academy, serve the community, and contribute to improving educational opportunities for the children and families it supports. I am equally proud to work collaboratively with colleagues across Delta Academies Trust and beyond, sharing evidence-informed approaches that support school improvement and help create better opportunities for children and young people.