Thank you, Ruth.

Sylvester Primary Academy is set to bid a fond farewell to Principal Ruth Harrison, who will be retiring at the end of this academic year after a distinguished 35-year career dedicated entirely to the children and communities of Knowsley. 

Ruth began her journey in education in 1990 as a Reception teacher at Halsnead Primary School. Over the decades, she has served across a range of schools and roles — including at Eastcroft Park Primary School in Kirkby, where she held the position as Deputy Head, Roby Park Primary School, where she served as Headteacher, Park View Primary School, and within Knowsley Council — before joining Sylvester Primary Academy in 2018. 

Her leadership at Sylvester has been defined by warmth, integrity and an unwavering Commitment to Excellence. 

Under her stewardship, the school celebrated two successful Ofsted inspections, a testament to the positive and nurturing environment that Ruth helped to cultivate. Ruth's contribution to education in Knowsley is both deep and lasting.

She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, compassion and inspiration — a role model for staff and students alike. Ruth will be succeeded by Helen Brenchley as Head of School who has been at Sylvester since 2000, and will celebrate 25 years of service on 1st September this year.

She will be supported by Ian Cooper, the Trust's Primary Executive Headteacher. 

Ruth Harrison commented: 

"It has been a pleasure to serve as principal at Sylvester Primary Academy for the last seven years. I have worked with dedicated and committed staff, who have the pupils at the heart of everything they do. 

"After 35 years in education, I am looking forward to a well-earned retirement. Whilst I'm sad to leave, I'm also excited about the new opportunities awaiting me. 

"I wish the school continued success for the future." 

Gary Kelly, Chief Executive at Wade Deacon Trust commented: 

“We thank Ruth for her three decades worth of service to education, especially to the Wade Deacon Trust, and we wish her the very best in her richly deserved retirement. 

“She will be deeply missed by pupils, colleagues and the entire school community at Sylvester Primary Academy, and indeed, across the wider Trust. 

“The positive impact that Ruth has made throughout her long-standing service will undoubtedly be felt for many years to come.” 

Juliet Brown, Director of Primary Education at the Wade Deacon Trust, commented: 

"I have had the privilege to know Ruth professionally for over 15 years.  Throughout that time, she has impacted on a significant amount of pupils' lives, as well as supporting families and the wider school communities across Knowsley. 

"Ruth has brought a wealth of knowledge, passion and commitment to her role as Principal at Sylvester Primary Academy. 

"She ensured the school continued to flourish in the most challenging of times, including during the COVID pandemic when she ensured that the school stayed open supporting the most vulnerable of families. 

"Throughout her leadership, she has led the school with determination and vigour ensuring that every pupil is provided with high quality learning experiences and who ultimately leave Sylvester as confident, independent, life – long learners."