Royston mayor supports King James Academy after damage

Mayor Cllr Lisa Adams and Deputy Mayor Cllr John Rees met with headteacher Lisa Plowman today (Friday, February 2).

They discussed solutions to local issues in education, as well as the recent challenges the school has faced - with Years 7 to 10 working from home following storm damage to the senior site.

Both the mayor and deputy mayor said they were "amazed" by the ingenuity and creativity of the school in finding ways to offer face-to-face teaching.

Flooding at the King James Academy senior site (Image: KJAR)

Cllr Adams saw this first hand when she met with King James Academy pupils on the Royston Town Heritage Trail - which they visited as part of their English lessons.

The councillors toured the site and observed the considerable damage, which included flooding and damage to the roof and cladding.

They also had the opportunity to visit the junior site and see Year 6 learners in their music and English classes.

Deputy headteacher Mr Dewar said: "I continue to be in awe of the way that the King James community has pulled together.

"The hard work and commitment of the staff to be able to deliver high quality learning despite the challenges has been incredible."

School leaders met with both councillors to discuss ways in which Royston's young people can be involved in local politics and find out more about how it affects their day-to-day lives.

Headteacher Ms Plowman said: "I am extremely glad that the mayor and deputy mayor were able to visit our school and see first hand the challenges that the young people (and staff) of King James have risen to.

"Our young people are extremely resilient and deserve the chance to access state of the art facilities in their own town.

"The mayor and deputy mayor are extremely passionate about their town and I am heartened by their commitment and offer of support for our school community in the local political landscape.

"I would like to extend my sincere thanks to them."