MAYFIELD pupils gathered to welcome their new head at the start of the autumn term.

Sophie McCabe has taken up her role at the Whitehaven-based school - catering for children with special educational needs aged three to 19 years - as this year it expands into Cockermouth.

 "This is a incredibly exciting time,'' Sophie said. "We have opened the doors to our second site which is based at the former St Joseph's Primary School. This is fantastic for our Key Stage 4 (ages 14-16 years} and sixth-form pupils offering a wealth of opportunities.

Whitehaven News: Sophie and Year 6 pupil Joey NawrockyjSophie and Year 6 pupil Joey Nawrockyj (Image: Mayfield School)

"I am thrilled to be the headteacher of Mayfield and am looking forward to getting to know all of the pupils, and their families, while working with our incredible staff."

Sophie said she was also keen to develop links with the local communities to help provide wider opportunities for students. " We want to enable our pupils to become increasingly independent in preparation for adult life, placing great emphasis on learning about healthy lifestyles and cultural awareness.'' 

Initially around 40 pupils will be based at the Cockermouth site, but this is due to rise.  

Whitehaven News: Pupil Jack Watson with SophiePupil Jack Watson with Sophie (Image: Mayfield School)

"Mayfield is an amazing school and provides high quality education, in exceptional facilities, to more young people than ever before having grown from 197 to 230 pupils,'' Sophie said. "I am absolutely passionate about special needs provision and will work to ensure the school remains a beacon of best practice.

"We have exceptional staff who are committed to meeting the pupils' needs and encouraging them to thrive, as well as supporting parents and carers."

Whitehaven News: Sophie talks to pupil Aiden Bell and class teacher Helen CondronSophie talks to pupil Aiden Bell and class teacher Helen Condron (Image: Mayfield School)

Formerly executive head of Arlecdon and Thornhill Primary schools, Sophie was also vice principal of Egremont's Westlakes Academy and worked for the Local Authority as the Special Educational Needs team manager. Her career began as a secondary school history teacher in Sheffield, rising to head of year and head of department before returning home to Cumbria.

"I have a wealth of educational experience and believe in clear communication and collaboration,'' Sophie added. "I want to ensure the school continues to provide the very best for our pupils.''