It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we share news of the death of our dear colleague and friend, Avril Newman, who passed away on May 7th peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

Avril was the leader of Sir William Burrough for almost 30 years and in this time ceaselessly and passionately championed the school and its community. We remember her with the fondest of memories and cherish the proud legacy that she leaves behind.

This news is deeply upsetting for everyone within the Sir William Burrough community and we will take the time to remember Avril’s dedication and service to the school and the people within it. It is only right that we honour her and when it is appropriate we will share the plans to do this.

In terms of the school’s leadership, University Schools Trust’s Director of Education for primary schools, Laure McPhee, will be fulfilling the roles and responsibilities of the Headteacher until Avril’s replacement is found.

Laura is a vastly experienced Headteacher who, prior to joining UST, led a primary school in south London which was acknowledged as Good in all areas by Ofsted and likely to be graded Outstanding at the next full inspection. She also holds several board positions related to safeguarding and is a facilitator for the Teacher Development Trust.

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Laura McPhee,

Acting Headteacher

WE ARE A SUNDAY TIMES TOP STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL, for the third year running: 2020, 2021, and now 2022.

Our SATs results for 2023 show 80% of children achieving the expected standard or above across all subjects, with 39% achieving the higher level in Reading, 63% achieving in Maths and 66% doing so in the Grammar test. In Reading, Maths and Grammar, the percentage of children achieving the expected standard exceeds the national average by 20% or more in each case.

Please click HERE for our 2023 SATs results.

Click HERE to see the DfE Comparative School Performance Data which shows how we benchmark against similar schools, and all schools nationally. Click HERE for our School Improvement Plan and here to view our SWB Self Evaluation.

For general enquiries please contact Sarah Sargeant on 020 7987 2147 or on admin@sirwilliamburrough.towerhamlets.sch.uk. The school postal address is Sir William Burrough School, Salmon Lane, London, E14 7PQ.

Chair of Trustees: Dr Peter Heathcote, who can be reached at the school address.

Headteacher: Laura McPhee, UST Director of Education, who is fulfilling the Headteacher’s roles and responsibilities.