You began your headship at Langley School in September 2019. How would you summarise your experience so far?
It has certainly been one of challenge, but as with all adversity, there is opportunity. It has been richly rewarding; to get to know an impressive body of staff and to be able to evolve and shape the school has been a privilege.
What’s the best and worst thing about being a head?
The variety of the job is certainly a huge positive, as is working with others to take the school forward to an exciting future. Worst, probably the deluge of constantly changing directives from the DfE.
What was it about Langley School that made you take the job?
There are many factors involved in such a decision. It seemed like a great time to be involved as it was clear that the school was doing pretty well, but there was a real opportunity to take it to the next level. With the merger between Langley and Taverham Hall a few years ago, it was a great time to create a through school from 2–18 and an opportunity many don’t have.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Geography captivated me then and still does. The ever-changing dynamism of the subject and relevance to our lives has always made it a firm favourite.
What are you currently reading?
I am currently jumping between The Culture Map by Erin Meyer, which looks at leadership across cultures, and The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, a bit of light entertainment.
What issue in education are you most passionate about?
Giving opportunity to every child to achieve and make a positive difference in their society and the wider world.
If you weren’t in education what would you do instead?
Police detective. Helping those without a voice get justice seems like it would be both worthwhile and interesting.
Langley School has undergone significant change since you joined. Which new aspect are you most proud of?
There is much that the team and I are proud of, but we are at the start of an exciting journey; ask me that in three years!
Jon Perriss previously worked at Norwich School, Tonbridge School and Christ’s Hospital, as well as in New Zealand. He is a geography teacher by training, with experience in the day and boarding elements of the independent sector. He is a governor at East Norfolk Sixth Form College and is passionate about growing the college.
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