Tollbar Academy Looks To An Exciting Future As New Principal Is Appointed

Nigel Whittle (second left), who will be the new Principal of Tollbar Academy, is welcomed by (l-r) Philip Bond (Chair of Tollbar Multi Academy Trust), Martin Brown (Chief Executive) and Jane Aukett (Vice Chair). 

Tollbar Academy has announced the details of its new Principal. Mr Nigel Whittle will be joining the school in April 2022 after a career that has seen him make real and tangible improvements in schools across the country. 

In fact, Mr Whittle is also no stranger to Grimsby, having been Principal of Havelock Academy from 2012-2015, where his leadership took the academy from Requires Improvement to Good following an Ofsted inspection - the first time in the school’s history that it had reached this level. 

Nigel Whittle said: “I am incredibly excited to return to the area to lead Tollbar Academy.  At the heart of everything I look to do is to create a supportive and ambitious school environment where every opportunity is taken, every talent is developed, and the potential of every child is nurtured and fulfilled. It is crucial that students get a rewarding and fulfilling time during their time at school.  

“I will work hard to ensure that we continue to build and celebrate all the outstanding things that happen at Tollbar, and embrace ways that can improve the student experience further.” 

Nigel has led large schools across the North West of England, most recently back in his hometown of Blackpool. His new role will see him lead Tollbar Academy - one of the largest and most successful secondary schools in the country, with a record for outstanding achievement since 2008. 

Mr Brown, CEO of the Tollbar Academy Trust, said: “We were determined as a Trust to secure the services of the best possible candidate to become the Principal of Tollbar Academy. 

“We were able to shortlist a strong selection of candidates from around the country and following a rigorous interview process Nigel was appointed. He proved to be an exceptionally strong candidate and I am delighted that Tollbar Academy’s students and staff have such an experienced Principal with such a strong track record of success to lead them in the coming years.”    

Mr Whittle is expected to take up his new position at the Academy from April next year, and over the coming months will be spending an increasing amount of time at the school as he prepares for the post.  

Philip Bond, Chair of TMAT, added: “We are delighted to welcome Nigel into the Tollbar Family of Academies. Nigel has an extensive background of working for many of the leading Trusts and will bring great experience to his role at Tollbar. 

“This is an important appointment and helps put the foundations in place for our school to have a very exciting and vibrant future.” 

Nigel Whittle is the new Principal of Tollbar Academy.