It's all about belief

The richness of cultural and commercial expertise on London’s South Bank is contrasted by the challenges faced by many of those living on the surrounding housing estates of North Lambeth. As such, my aim is for the new Oasis Academy to be a bridge between the South Bank employers and the local Waterloo youth and for all students to become employed in a career with prospects.

Leading this school is not going to be an easy task. I am expecting numerous challenges and obstacles. In light of some scepticism around free schools, there will be many hurdles to overcome on top of the usual challenges when starting up a school from scratch – recruiting students, building an outstanding staff team, managing a budget yet fulfilling an innovative curriculum, and getting a building ready to serve children. However, the biggest and most important challenge will be instilling a genuine belief in everyone in this community, particularly the children, that they can do it.