Academy Principal
As the flagship academy of Leigh Academies Trust we have an inspirational building hosting modern technology and fantastic facilities. We ensure that our students are prepared both academically and socially prepared for their futures. We ensure that students’ talents and interests are nurtured through our broad and balanced curriculum, in particular through the delivery of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme in Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9.
At The Leigh Academy, we aim to provide a learning environment which is both welcoming and supportive and to create a caring, working atmosphere which will enable students to reach their full potential intellectually, spiritually, ethically and physically. The Leigh Academy recognises the importance of the individual, values all it’s students equally and strives to ensure that they have the opportunity to experience success. We publicly acknowledge their achievements with pride.
The Leigh Academy offers excellent learning opportunities to all our students from Year 7 to Year 13.
We take pride in being the first school in the UK to have been presented with The Healthy Minds School award, in recognition of successful involvement in the national Healthy Minds research project and demonstrating a commitment to the personal development of students.
We strive for excellence in all that we do, and this is reflected in our dedicated staff and our consistent approach to teaching and learning to ensure all of our students are happy, successful and resilient to the challenges they face.
Our intention is to work in close partnership with parents and carers to ensure that students of all abilities, interests and talents are given every opportunity to be part of our inspiring, challenging and supportive community.
I look forward to meeting you very soon.
Julia Collins
Principal of The Leigh Academy
Mrs Collins
Academy Principal
What subject do you teach?
I am Principal at The Leigh Academy. I really enjoyed teaching all the Humanities subjects and in particular History.
How long have you been at The Leigh?
9 years.
What sorts of things do you do in your job?
I am the Principal of The Leigh Academy. I make sure that the academy is running smoothly and organise our community to provide the best educational opportunities for all our young people.
Do you have any children or any pets?
I have two boys, we have two pet rabbits and a puppy.
What is your favourite colour?
My favourite colour is Leigh blue.
What is your favourite sport?
I enjoy running and watching my children play football and rugby.
Name one thing you have enjoyed about lockdown?
I have enjoyed spending time with my children and baking.
What have you missed most during lockdown?
I have missed seeing our community of students every day.
What job did you want to have when you were younger?
I always wanted to be a teacher.
What advice would you give a new Year 7 student starting at The Leigh?
Take up every opportunity that is offered to you. Don't be too shy to ask for help.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Malala Yousafzai - who nearly lost her life speaking out for girls right to education. She is the youngest person to ever be awarded the Nobel Peace prize. Her story puts our challenges into perspective and highlights how important education is for all young people.