Why did you want to join St. Joseph’s? I’ve been a headteacher for over twenty years and consider it the greatest vocation. I’ve previously led St Cuthbert’s (Kenton), St Aloysius (Hebburn), and St Michael’s (Elswick), and I’ve also served in a senior role within Catholic Education Trusts.
I believe education has the power to transform lives, and we must all commit to helping every child excel. I’m proud to join St Joseph’s, where the staff are deeply committed to the highest standards for all. I’ve already seen a curriculum that reflects the diversity of our society, with happy corridors, and hard-working classrooms. I’ve known previous headteachers of St. Joseph’s really well and have visited many times. It’s an amazing community. The staff are incredibly dedicated, and the children are delightful. Everyone at. St Joseph’s and across Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust has made me feel very welcome.
What does a ‘typical’ day look like? I like to spend a lot of time in classrooms on informal visits to see the children and staff throughout the day. I also enjoy being out in the playground each morning to greet pupils and their families. I try to know each person by name — it’s so important to me to get to know everyone in the school community.
What is your leadership style? I lead with my heart — as a dad, a son, and a friend. I also believe in developing compassionate and meaningful systems, so we have consistently in how we approach issues. I genuinely believe I have the best job in the world.
What is the best piece of leadership advice you’ve received? To put the child at the centre of every decision. Any decision made with the child or children at its heart is a good one.
What do you enjoy most about the job? We really do have the best job in the world, working in education. I love getting to know people. It can be a tough job at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding and fun. When you see someone shine — whether it’s a child, a staff member, or someone in our wider community — it’s amazing. When someone believes in you, that’s when you truly thrive.
What’s the funniest thing a child has said to you? They regularly call me by the wrong name — I’ve been called ‘Nanna’, ‘Grandad’, and ‘Dad’! It’s always fun to hear what children want to be when they grow up — like becoming a dinosaur! Children are naturally curious and ask some wonderfully funny questions too.
What are the key challenges facing the education sector? Finance affects every school. As a headteacher, you have to make the best decisions with the children at the centre, while being realistic about the resources available.
What changes or improvements are planned for this academic year and beyond? I try hard to be a good listener, so right now I’m doing a lot of listening. I’m very proud of our school community and especially proud of our children, who behave exceptionally well. I have two daughters, and they’ve told me that when you keep your head down, work hard, and behave well, you can sometimes be overlooked. So, I want to introduce more rewards for pupils who consistently behave impeccably.
We’re also starting to tweak our writing curriculum. I’m a big believer that writing is a powerful way for children to show what they understand, know and can do. My pledge to you is that we will strive for excellence in all that we do, inspired by Gospel values. I want our community to excel.
What has been your proudest achievement, both personally and professionally? I’m a family person, so my greatest achievement is my family. Alongside my wife Clare, I’ve had the privilege of raising two wonderful daughters. Rachel is training to be a sports journalist in Manchester, and Alison has just started Sixth Form. Professionally, my proudest achievement is knowing that the schools I’ve had the privilege to lead continue to thrive.
How do you unwind? I’m a big sports fan — I follow Middlesbrough FC and enjoy cricket. I also do a lot of reading. I tend to read fiction on holiday and biographies during term time to help me switch off.
Favourite artist/band? The Stone Roses.
Favourite film? Billy Elliot. I took my late Gran to see it — she lived near Easington Colliery. That film reminds me a lot of her, and she meant a great deal to me.
