Polly Sanders – Assistant Principal
I began my journey with Venn Academy Trust in September 2023 as a teacher at Euler Academy. From the very beginning, I was struck by the trust’s inclusive, supportive culture and its unwavering commitment to collaboration. The leadership team at Euler fostered a sense of shared purpose that inspired me to take my own aspirations seriously and confirmed that I had found the right environment to grow, contribute, and lead.
Within my first year, I embraced the opportunity to apply for the role of Assistant Principal. Stepping into leadership so early in my time with the trust has been both exciting and rewarding. Through programmes like the Aspiring Leaders course, I’ve been able to build on my teaching experience with high-quality professional development that has shaped my confidence, vision, and capacity as a leader.
At Venn, I feel listened to, supported, and encouraged every step of the way. The trust’s belief in my potential and its investment in my growth have been instrumental in helping me thrive. I work within a team that shares goals, values each other’s contributions, and works together to deliver the very best for our children.
Supporting pupils with special educational needs has always been a central passion of mine, and Venn gives me the platform to make a genuine difference in their lives. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far and I look ahead with excitement as I continue my journey, committed to making a meaningful impact on our school and wider community.

“Relationships between staff and pupils are extremely caring and positive. Pupils feel safe and supported, preparing them well for life beyond school.”

“Pupils love learning at this school. Each morning, friendly staff greet children at the door with big smiles. This creates a welcoming and positive environment for all pupils.”

“There is a strong team culture within the school. Teachers who are new to the school welcome the support they receive.”

“Parents appreciate the school’s efforts to engage with families and build strong community links.”

“There is a strong sense of teamwork among staff, which contributes to the school’s positive ethos.”

“Pupils thrive in a nurturing and inclusive environment.”

“Leaders have high expectations of pupils. Staff share a determination to help children succeed.”

“Pupils are eager to learn and enjoy a curriculum that is both engaging and broad, supporting their academic and personal growth.”

“The school provides high-quality nurture and skilled support, ensuring pupils flourish both academically and personally.”

“Teachers help every pupil do their best. The staff know pupils’ needs extremely well and tailor learning to enable all pupils to thrive.”

“Pupils are enthusiastic learners and enjoy the varied and engaging curriculum on offer.”

“Highly effective and passionate leaders, from in school and the trust, work well together to ensure that pupils in this school make very strong progress from their varied starting points.”

“The school expects great things from all pupils. They successfully meet these goals and make superb progress in their understanding of different subjects.”

“The school’s inclusive ethos ensures that every child feels valued, supported, and able to thrive.”

“The school is a vibrant and welcoming place where pupils feel safe and supported.”

“Leaders are ambitious for every pupil and provide a curriculum that meets their diverse needs.”

“The curriculum is designed to ensure that all children make progress in their learning.”

“Parents and carers appreciate the school’s focus on building strong relationships and engaging with the wider community.”

“Pupils are happy and enjoy their learning.”

“Teachers have high expectations, which encourages pupils to strive for their best.”

“Leaders consider teachers’ workload. This helps teachers to focus on planning interesting lessons.”

“Parents value the commitment of staff in helping their children to succeed.”

“Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school and the difference it has made to their children.”

“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary, and they show a strong sense of belonging to the school community.”

“Staff work effectively together to create a caring and inclusive environment where all pupils are valued.”

“The school provides a highly nurturing environment where pupils feel valued and supported.”

“Leaders are determined to provide pupils with the best possible start to their education, ensuring that all pupils achieve well.”

“Leaders ensure that the curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, enabling them to succeed academically and personally.”

“Strong leadership ensures that all pupils make excellent progress in their learning and personal development.”

“The school provides a safe and supportive environment for pupils with a range of additional needs.”

“The school’s values of ‘confidence, resilience and perseverance’ shine through the curriculum and the positive attitudes of staff and pupils.”

“They are committed to including all pupils in the school and work hard to ensure that they achieve well.”

“Staff are skilled at helping pupils to re-engage with their learning and make good progress.”
