Ropemakers Academy

Head's Welcome

I would like to extend you a very warm welcome to the Ropemakers’ Academy in Hailsham. This state of the art school is an exciting addition to The Beckmead Trust’s Family of Schools, and I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to introduce you to this fantastic setting.

My own educational experience has allowed me to work across a range of different schools, as both a teacher and as a school leader. It has been a real privilege for me that for the last eleven years of my teaching career I have been able to work specifically with vulnerable children across both the primary and secondary sectors. These children have a range of special educational needs and disabilities, which can lead to challenging behaviour, and I enjoy working with them to understand how we can resolve their issues together. My previous experiences of working with vulnerable pupils means that the opportunity to lead The Ropemakers’ Academy is one that I have undertaken with not only extensive experience behind me, but also with an absolute passion for improving the lives of our students.

The school is set in a wonderful, expansive and picturesque site in the Sussex town of Hailsham. Our name comes from the rich rope making history associated with the town, which originated in the early nineteenth century. Hailsham itself is a market town set just north of Eastbourne and has good road links from the A22 and A27. From my own experiences of walking my dogs and cycling in and around Hailsham, I’m aware of how lovely the local area is, and we intend to make full use of our surroundings to enrich our curriculum offer.

I trust that you will find this website full of information about the school, The Beckmead Trust and what you and your child can look forward to from The Ropemakers’ Academy. I would also relish the opportunity to meet with you to discuss any other questions you may have, and to meet you and your child, and so look forward to meeting you in due course. Please use the contact page to let me know if you have any questions or would like to arrange a tour of the school and to meet myself and our team.

Simon Hawthorne

Head Teacher