A NATIONALLY celebrated headteacher has been appointed to lead an academy in Bolton.

Martin Knowles, a celebrated leader in education, will take over the headship of Essa Academy at the start of the next academic year.

Mr Knowles has gained national recognition as a “passionate and driven” educationalist and singled out for praise.

In his 2016 Annual Report, the Chief Inspector of Schools, Sir Michael Wilshaw, recognised Mr Knowles’ work and singled him out for praise.

It stated: “The principal has been instrumental in driving rapid improvement across the school.

“He and his team are highly driven in their quest to provide good teaching.

“Consequently, standards are rising quickly and pupils are making good progress across the school.”

Sir Michael’s comments reflect the fact that the academy Mr Knowles was leading moved from requires improvement to good within two years according to Ofsted, the Government’s education watchdog.

The latest report stated: “The dynamic leadership of the principal has brought a sweeping change across the school. He has sharpened systems and built a strong team.”

Mr Knowles is a dad of four children, aged between four and 15, and lived in Bolton for more than a decade.

He said: “I am so excited to be joining the team at Essa Academy.

“I am absolutely passionate about improving the life chances of children.

“I really believe in a focus on not just excellent exam results but, more importantly, in inspiring children to become good, well-rounded people.”

CEO of the Essa Foundation Academies Trust, Andrew Cooper, said: “I’m thrilled that Martin is joining the team here at Essa. His passion and enthusiasm, coupled with his exceptional track record, will help the school to continue to grow and improve. When it comes to inspiring and motivating children, he really is second to none.”

The academy’s current Interim Principal, Patrick Ottley-O’Connor, will continue working at the school until summer 2018, supporting Mr Knowles and the team to “ensure continuity of leadership and a seamless transition in the coming year”.

Essa Academy was Bolton’s first school to break away from local authority control in 2009.

It is judged a good school by Ofsted, with all areas given the grade two mark.

Inspectors found: “Students achieve well. From attainment on entry that is below average, they reach standards at the end of Year 11 that are in line with national figures.

“Students’ achievement in mathematics is particularly good and, for less able students, outstanding.”

The academy has gone on to establish an international reputation for innovative teaching.