Our Leadership Team

Find out a little about our Leadership Team here:

Mr. Stuart Gawthorpe, Headteacher 

I feel extremely privileged to be the Headteacher of Ley Top Primary School. My 18-year (so far) career began, later than some following a career in optics, in Kent where I served as Deputy Headteacher in 3 schools before my first Headship. I was Headteacher for just over 5 years before heading back to my Yorkshire roots. On my return to Yorkshire I was appointed Deputy Headteacher at a primary school in Ilkley fo 2 years before joining Ley Top.

In 2015 I completed the National Award for Special Education Needs Coordinators, pursuing a personal passion for supporting children with additional needs. I have held the role of SENDCo in 4 schools ensuring that every child receives the support they need and gaining valuable experience in many different needs. I then completed the National Professional Qualification for Headteachers in 2024.

I am proud to be the Headteacher supporting a dedicated team of colleagues striving to make Ley Top Primary School irresistible.

Mr. Ed Pickering, Interim Deputy Headteacher 

Since I joined the school in January, I have felt incredibly welcomed by the community and have loved getting to know all of our wonderful children. It is great to be a part of the school's journey at such an important time - there is so much progress being made and endless positivity and potential.

I have been teaching and leading in primary schools (mainly in Key Stage 2) for 13 years having had a previous decade-long career working in Central Government in the heart of London. Working with children is far more rewarding than working with politicians!

Before joining Ley Top, I had the pleasure of working with Mr Gawthorpe as part of a School Leadership Team previously - so we know that we form a great team and that we share an ambitious vision. 

Whilst initially planning to be here until the end of April, I am pleased to be able to say that I will now be staying here until the end of the school year (3 days a week from 1st May) - obviously I am enjoying myself too much!

Mr. Paul Gibbs, Deputy Headteacher - starting April 2026

I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Deputy Headteacher of Ley Top Primary School. Following the Easter break, I will officially join this wonderful community, though I have already had the privilege of spending some time this term getting to know our dedicated staff and, most importantly, our amazing children.

Having worked in Bradford schools for 15 years—with over a decade in senior leadership—my mission has always been to ensure every child reaches their full potential. I am passionate about creating an environment that excites, engages, and allows every student to thrive. Beyond academic success, I am committed to helping our pupils become responsible young people who recognise their own strengths while showing care and consideration for others.

I am eager to build upon my experience to help lead Ley Top through the next stage of its transformation journey. I look forward to meeting you all at the school gates over the coming weeks!