Katie Radford
Vice Principal - Culture and Inclusion
Katie Radford is the Vice Principal of Culture and Inclusion at Dixons Cottingley Academy, where she has been a senior leader since 2020. She first joined the academy as Assistant Principal for Inclusion and Designated Safeguarding Lead, bringing extensive experience in SEND, safeguarding, and whole-school culture.
Katie began her career in education as a Teacher of PE at Allerton Grange, later becoming Head of PE and taking on a TLR for SEND. She went on to work as SENDCo at Outwood Academy Shafton before moving into senior leadership at Dixons Cottingley.
Prior to her teaching career, Katie worked as a regional manager for sports camps, where she wrote programmes that are still delivered internationally — from cruise ships to rural communities in Africa.
During her time at Dixons Cottingley, Katie has led the academy to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Inclusion through the IQM, and in 2025 the school was awarded Flagship Status under her leadership. Her work continues to focus on building an inclusive culture where all students, particularly the most vulnerable, are supported to achieve success in education and beyond.
Katie is deeply passionate about inclusive education, developing strong school culture, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their future.
