MARINA SAVVA
EXECUTIVE HEADTEACHER
As the founder of Focus 1st Academy 25 years ago, my mission has always come from a deeply personal place — to build a school where every child feels seen, valued, heard and safe. A place where inclusion isn’t just a principle, but a practice woven into every corner of school life.
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I’ve worked tirelessly to create an environment that embraces all pupils, including those facing visible disabilities, hidden needs, or personal challenges with mixed sentiments that too often go unnoticed. Every child deserves the chance to thrive, to feel they truly belong.
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For our hands-on learners, we prioritise practical, meaningful experiences — not just to meet academic goals, but to build confidence, real-life skills, and the foundation to become respectful, law-abiding citizens who can participate fully and proudly in society. My commitment remains the same today as it was at the beginning: to make sure every child, no matter their starting point, matters and is equipped with the tools they need to succeed.
ANDREA KATTIRTZI
HEADTEACHER (Cheshunt & Welwyn)
At our Cheshunt and Welwyn campuses, the well-being and mental health of our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that a supportive, nurturing environment is the foundation for learning and personal growth.
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As sports-driven schools, we encourage our students to stay active and engaged through a variety of daily activities including swimming, badminton, table tennis, and more. These not only promote physical health but also help build confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
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Academically, we offer a broad and balanced curriculum. Pupils have the opportunity to achieve GCSEs in core subjects such as Maths, English, Science, Art, and Textiles. We are equally proud of our strong vocational pathways, which include courses in Beauty, Hairdressing, Barbering, and Cookery – helping students gain real-world skills for future careers.
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Our goal is to provide a vibrant, inclusive learning environment where every pupil can thrive, both academically and personally.
