Senior Team
Ashid Ali
Role: Principal
Biography: I was privileged to lead a group of talented professionals on our successful bid to open the free school. I was appointed Principal since January 2014 and prior to that I have worked as Assistant Head Teacher at Forest Gate Community School for six years, bringing considerable leadership skills to the group. I have also served as a governor in two secondary schools and have worked closely with governors in my most recent place of work. I have been involved in a number of voluntary organisations working with young people in inner city areas. I have a passion for education and a sincere belief that every child can transform their lives through education. I bring extensive experience to the governing body including leading teams, managing projects and change, excellent understanding of finances having set and delivered positive budgets for the past six years. I have an excellent understanding of the Tower Hamlets community that we serve and good links with businesses and community organisations.
Ashraf Khan
Role: Vice Principal
Biography: I have 20 years of experience working in school settings including primary, secondary, independent, faith based, non-denominational, single sex, co-ed and free schools. I have worked as an Educational Consultant in School Improvement as well as running a small perfume business in London. My previous roles include working as a Curriculum Development Advisor for a MAT in Newham, Vice Principal in LEA and prior to that as an Advanced Skills Teacher (AST) in Maths. Further, I am an accredited WRAP trainer from the Home Office and hold a Masters in Education as well as National Professional Qualification for Headteachers (NPQH). All of the above gives me a sound set of skills and experience to be in a position to support and challenge the Principal at a strategic level in order to help the Academy progress.
Paola Haik
Role: School Business Manager
Biography: I have a School Business Management degree and 14 years of experience in different school settings. I have worked as a School Business Manager in a special needs and secondary school. I have completed a postgraduate certificate in coaching and firmly believe that happiness leads to success, and I want to be a part of a student’s journey to success. I speak Arabic, Italian, and English fluently and enjoy hiking, especially in the summer. I am happy to be a part of LEA; it is a diverse environment with students from all walks of life, and it is great to be here.
Dr. Abul Ali
Role: Assistant Principal
Biography: Education serves as the beacon illuminating the path to every student's inherent potential. I staunchly believe that every individual, irrespective of their cultural or economic background, deserves access to a first-class education. It is through education that we sow the seeds of a fair and just society. For over 15 years, I've been immersed in the vibrant educational landscape of London, embarking on a journey that began with my PGCE studies at Cambridge University. Throughout my tenure, I've embraced every facet of the science department, from guiding as a KS5 Coordinator to leading as Director of Science. My roots in Tower Hamlets have instilled in me a profound understanding of the challenges faced by young people today. This awareness fuels my relentless pursuit of equitable education, where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Driven by a passion for results, I've implemented transformative strategies aimed at enhancing student outcomes and fostering a culture of excellence. From facilitating as 2IC to steering the helm as a senior leader, I've consistently strived to empower students and educators alike. As an advocate for change, I stand committed to bridging the gap in educational equity and nurturing a generation of empowered learners. Together, let us continue to champion the transformative power of education and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Shumon Ali
Role: Assistant Principal
Biography: Born and raised in Tower Hamlets, I truly understand the challenges that young people face. I firmly believe in the transformative power of education to uplift and empower the youth. This conviction led me to pursue a career in teaching. With over 17 years of experience in education, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my role. With a degree in Mathematics and a teaching qualification (PGCE) in Maths, I began my journey as an educator in 2011. My career has taken me through a diverse range of educational settings, including inner-city schools in Tower Hamlets, Newham, and Brent. Beginning as a dedicated maths teacher, I steadily progressed through the ranks, assuming positions of increasing responsibility, culminating in my role as Head of Department. Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, I transitioned to a prominent multi-academy trust (MAT), where I spent over 8 years as a Senior Leader, holding various leadership roles. Now, as a member of the LEA, I continue to channel my passion for education into creating meaningful opportunities for young people to thrive and succeed.