Ruth Braithwaite

I consider it a great privilege to lead the dedicated team of staff here at Bedford Primary School, a role I have undertaken since I was appointed Headteacher in September 2008. By this time, I had already held the position of Deputy Headteacher for five years so I knew that Bedford was a truly special place.

With the skills gained from my experience teaching in another local Sefton primary school, and those gained when working for the School Improvement Team within Knowsley Education Authority, I was ready to make a difference. I was also fully aware of the important role that schools have to play within the communities they serve.

At the heart of our school community is warmth, care, inclusivity and a genuine commitment to each and every child reaching their true and full potential. These values underpin our work and we pride ourselves on our ability to nurture our children to feel safe, cherished and valued as members of ‘Team Bedford’.

I am equally passionate about working closely with the families of our children to ensure that they all have the opportunity to flourish and excel whilst receiving the education they deserve. Our job is to identify each child’s strengths, foster their ambitions and provide them with keys to open doors that lead to opportunity and the futures they deserve. Having worked in education for over 20 years, I know from experience that the best way to achieve this is by establishing strong home-school partnerships.

Bootle has and always will have a special place in my heart – I was born here and have many happy childhood memories of living in the neighbourhood local to school. I am now in the fortunate position to be able to give something back to the community that Bedford serves.

At the end of each school day, my most important job begins. I am the proud mum of three young children (twins included). They certainly are my greatest achievement, they keep me busy and make life one big adventure. When I have a few moments to myself, I also love the arts, football, rugby and running.