Family comes first as head steps down

David Hayes: proud of the school’s achievements

Oasis Academy Oldham principal David Hayes is to stand down at the end of the academic year.

The former chef-turned-fast-track school leader, who replaced interim principal Sir Iain Hall in December 2011, is leaving to spend more time with his family.

The 38 year old - formerly deputy principal at Oasis Academy MediaCityUK in Salford - qualified as a chef after leaving school, before going into teaching.

Mr Hayes said: “I’m incredibly proud of the work we have done. Oldham has been a wonderful place to work, so it’s with deep regret that I’ve taken the sad decision to step down.

“This has been a challenging role, and I now want to find one that allows me to put my family first.

“I will be taking on another role in education and academies, working with other head teachers to improve their academies. But I’m here all summer to ensure we are the very best we can be; my passion hasn’t reduced.

“We have come a long way since I took over the role and I have been overwhelmed by the support from my colleagues and the people of Oldham.”

Oasis Academy Oldham replaced South Chadderton and Kaskenmoor Schools in September, 2010, and moved into a new building for 1,500 pupils in Hollinwood in 2012. The national Oasis organisation is now searching for his successor.