For me personally, this letter is especially significant because it is my final end of year letter before I retire after twenty years of service to King Edward VII School, initially as Deputy Headteacher, then as Associate Headteacher before securing the extraordinary privilege of becoming Headteacher ten years ago. 
It has been the greatest privilege of my professional life to lead this remarkable School. Together we have built a learning community where every young person is known, valued and supported to achieve their potential. Our diversity has always been one of our greatest strengths and we place high value on it. I am incredibly proud that inclusion, equity and a real sense of belonging inform everything that we do in King Edward VII School. Over the past two decades, I have watched thousands of children and young people grow in confidence, character and ambition before they leave our School to pursue successful futures. I have worked with committed staff and governors, alongside parents, carers, families and amazing students who have continued to inspire me. The relationships, memories and achievements we have shared will remain with me indefinitely.

Looking back on 2025-2026
This year has been another highly successful one for our School. Guided by our 2025-2026  School Improvement Plan, we have continued to strengthen outcomes, enhance provision and ensure that our students have the opportunity to thrive. Some of our key achievements this year 
include:

• Maintained high academic standards, with strong progress and attainment across a wide range of subjects.
• Further strengthened teaching and learning, ensuring greater consistency across departments.
• Expanded support for disadvantaged and vulnerable students, helping to narrow gaps in achievement and participation. 
• Improved student attendance and engagement through targeted interventions and strengthened pastoral support.
• Invested in staff development which help to maintain the success of the School.
• Continued to enhance our inclusive culture where every member of our community feels respected, valued and a sense of belonging.

These achievements reflect the hard work and commitment of our students, families, staff and governors. They also demonstrate a School that continues to be ambitious, caring and always striving to be even better.

Looking ahead
I leave King Edward VII School knowing that it is in a very strong position. We have a talented and dedicated staffing body, amazing young people, a very supportive community and a clear vision for the future. 

Most importantly, we have created a culture that will endure – a culture built on high expectations, kindness, inclusion and an unequivocal belief that every child and young person can achieve and be successful.

I am very excited for the future of our School because the next Headteacher will inherit a thriving School and will have the opportunity to lead the next stage of its journey.

Click on the link below to read the letter in full including key dates and timings for September 2026.