SECOND best is not good enough is the motto being adopted by the new headteacher at Matravers School, Simon Riding, who takes up the post in September.
Dr Simon Riding said that he is joining the school at ‘an incredibly exciting time with the school about to record its fourth year of rising results’.
“I am honoured and proud to be given the opportunity to lead Matravers School,” he said. “I have been tremendously impressed by the incredibly lively and positive ethos, alongside the outstanding range of opportunities that exist for students.
“I really value the opportunities that students have at Matravers to enjoy the ability to think creatively, critically and innovatively. Every student I have met possesses a strong sense of responsibility, loyalty and moral purpose for the school and the wider community.”
Simon Riding joins Matravers from his current role as senior deputy headteacher at Bitterne Park School in Southampton. Bitterne Park School is an ‘outstanding national teaching school’ and it is his intention to ensure that Matravers quickly secures its own ‘outstanding’ label.
He said, “The strong, close partnerships between students, their families and school staff will ensure that every Matravers student has the opportunity to succeed and exceed our high expectations.”
Matravers’ new headteacher has been very impressed by his new colleagues and stated, “Teaching needs to inspire learners and engage them through its vibrancy and energy. There is no shortage of this at Matravers and I can see why results continue to get better and better.”
Simon Riding is married to Karen, who is also a teacher and has a six year old daughter, Sophia. Away from school, he enjoys both watching and coaching rugby, sailing and also spending time in his garden.
Pictured: New headteacher Simon Riding with some of the students – pictures supplied by Jamie McDine – www.wiltshireweddingphotography.org.uk
