Sally Newton

Sally began her teaching career in 2001 in County Durham, having been identified as a future leader through the DfE Fast Track Programme. She became Acting Headteacher within her first four years. During this time, she led national research and policy development aimed at improving educational outcomes for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller children. Her innovative approaches to engaging with this community were celebrated across the sector.

In 2008, Sally joined Durham Local Authority’s School Improvement Team as an Education Development Partner. She worked across a diverse range of schools across the North East, providing rapid school improvement support and challenge for leadership teams, with noteworthy impact.

In her most recent role as Headteacher, Sally led Sedgefield Hardwick Primary School from a position of Inadequate to Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. Utilising the expertise of her Board, Sally established a trading company to offer Extended Provision for children to explore hidden talents and interests. She continued to provide Consultancy and Training Services for both local authorities and Multi-Academy Trusts.

Sedgefield Hardwick Primary School joined the Laidlaw Schools Trust in 2022, and Sally took up a central role working across our Academies to build further upon their successes. She has a particular passion for edtech and inclusion, driving the ambitious implementation of creative solutions.