David Scales, the Principal at Astrea Academy Woodfields, will leave the academy at the end of the academic year

David Scales, Principal of Astrea Academy Woodfields in Doncaster, is stepping down from his role at the end of this academic year to take up a new post in Sheffield.

Mr Scales has been Principal at Woodfields since March 2023 and has successfully led and transformed the academy for over three years.

Among his many achievements, Mr Scales oversaw the academy’s Ofsted inspection in 2024 which saw Woodfields achieve its first ever rating of Good since the watchdog began inspecting schools over 30 years ago.

In their report, inspectors praised Woodfield’s leadership for having an “incessant focus on improving the quality of education that pupils receive” and for “acting swiftly to ensure the learning environment remains calm and productive”.

Ofsted noted that the culture within the academy had been “transformed”. Under Mr Scales’ leadership, Woodfields has been recognised as being the 16th most improved school for reducing absence and students achieved their highest ever attainment in GCSE exams last year.

The academy also won the Prestige awards for Secondary School of the Year in Yorkshire in 2025/6 and Education Provider of the Year 2026/7.

Mr Scales has overseen many successful projects during his leadership, such as the recitation of poetry, with students travelling to the Globe Theatre in London to perform. He introduced musical instrument lessons for students in Years 7,8 and 9 via the Music in Secondary Schools Trust, with students getting the chance to perform at the Barbican Centre in the capital.

Astrea Academy Trust has appointed Victoria Southall, the current Vice Principal, as Interim Principal, to lead Woodfields once Mr Scales leaves.

Commenting on his departure, Mr Scales said: “It has been a great honour to lead Astrea Academy Woodfields and a privilege to oversee the academy’s transformation into a successful school where students are well prepared for education, training or employment.

“I know that the school will be in good hands under the stewardship of my colleague Victoria Southall as Interim Principal and the exceptional and strong leadership of Astrea Academy Trust.

“I would like to thank all my colleagues for their dedication and hard work, the students for their enthusiasm and drive and all our parents and carers for their continued support.”

Rowena Hackwood, CEO of Astrea Academy Trust, said: “David has made an exceptional contribution during his time as Principal at Astrea Academy Woodfields.

“He is a talented school leader who has led Woodfields with integrity and vision and his strong commitment to excellence has left an indelible mark on staff and students alike.

“Among his many achievements at Woodfields, Mr Scales secured the school’s first Ofsted rating of Good in its history. We would like to congratulate Mr Scales on his new role and wish him all the very best for the future.”