ITT Team (ID 1140)

• Tom Kowalski
  Initial Teacher Training Lead
  Tom Kowalski

  Interim Deputy Headteacher at St Clare's

  As Initial Teacher Training Lead, I work closely with our headteachers and other senior leaders to ensure your placements in school run as smoothly as possible, giving you the opportunity to flourish and be supported every step of the way. Working closely with colleagues at Leeds Trinity University and senior leaders in our partner trust (Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust), I work to ensure you get the best in classroom-proven, research-based training to allow you to learn from some of the best practitioners across our schools. I work to recruit new candidates, so look out for me at open events at Leeds Trinity! I am also there to see you through the program successfully and am in touch with your school-based tutors, as well as the link-tutors from Leeds Trinity, to ensure you have a positive experience which will hopefully lead you to secure a teaching role for the following September. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to becoming a teacher and making a difference.

• April Newton
  Initial Teacher Training Lead
  April Newton

  Assistant Headteacher at St Columba’s

  As part of my role in leading Initial Teacher Training, I support trainees from the point of application through to the accreditation of Qualified Teacher Status. This includes supporting applicants throughout the interview process and working with schools place students in the best school experience setting for them. You will often see me around during open events and sessions at Leeds Trinity.

  I also work closely with the rest of the ITT Team to design and deliver a highly effective initial teacher training (ITT) provision and promote BCWCAT, spreading the word about what a nurturing Trust we are to train with who are fully committed to supporting the next generation of teachers.

• Chris Spillane
  Initial Teacher Training Lead
  Chris Spillane

  Deputy Headteacher at Our Lady and St Brendan’s

  In January 2024, I joined the Initial Teacher Training Team, having had experience as a mentor, lead mentor, and induction tutor for early career teachers. My career has equipped me with an understanding of the challenges faced by new educators, as well as the strategies necessary for professional development and personal well-being support.

  Having worked and trained across fantastic school settings and key stages, I have gained a deep appreciation for the richness of diversity that the BCWCAT family provide. My training in Catholic schools across Bradford and Keighley provided me with invaluable learning experiences, which I look forward to sharing with you!

  The guidance and support from leaders within the BCWCAT have enabled me to progress each year with a clear, attainable pathway into leadership, and I am excited to support you on this journey. These developments have not only enhanced the quality of education but have also contributed to the overall success of the institutions I have been a part of.

  I am passionate about ensuring all children have the best opportunities to discover their gifts and talents. I have always enjoyed helping people succeed and I take pleasure in developing teachers by leveraging the latest research findings and sharing this knowledge with my peers and colleagues.

• Claire Holdsworth
  Initial Teacher Training & Early Career Teacher Mentor
  Claire Holdsworth

  I have been teaching for over 14 years and have begun the role of recruiting new teachers. I look forward to helping them grow in their training and supporting them through their ECT years. I will coach and mentor early career teachers, offering expert advice with a friendly, caring approach. My passion for Catholic education drives me to create a supportive and understanding environment, ensuring teachers feel valued and empowered to excel. I am committed to upholding teaching standards and professional integrity while continuously improving my own skills to better support my colleagues. Education is not just about academics; it's also about nurturing moral and spiritual growth in students. I am proud to play a role in shaping the future of education in our Blessed Christopher Wharton Trust and making a positive impact on students and teachers.