Minerva’s Virtual Academy
Lawrence Tubb has taken over the role of headmaster at online independent school Minerva’s Virtual Academy. Previously head of education, Tubb has been instrumental in developing the school’s online learning platform and responsible for the day-to-day running of the school. He has previously been director of music at Wycombe Abbey and head of music at Leweston School.
He said: “Over recent years, I have become passionate about the potential for a high-end, independent online school – one that would thrive on delivering a truly holistic educational experience to every pupil.”
Red House School
Red House School in Norton has appointed Dr Rebecca Ashcroft as its new headteacher. She is the first woman to hold the role in the school’s history and the ninth head overall. Ashcroft has worked in education for over 15 years, moving to Red House in 2020 as deputy head and head of senior school, from a position as assistant head and head of sixth form at Harrogate Ladies’ College.
“I am thrilled to be leading the school in its strategic educational vision. My previous role has equipped me well for the step up and I am looking forward to leading the whole school,” she said.
Forres Sandle Manor School
Mike Stanley has taken up the reins as headmaster at Forres Sandle Manor School. He joins the school from his position as deputy head of Walhampton Prep School.
He said: “I feel very privileged and honoured to be joining the FSM team and leading the school into an exciting new chapter. We aim to help our children become kind, thoughtful and respectful citizens who will look forwards and outwards and be a positive force in society.” The school will be getting a new play area and will be looking at ways to enhance the pupils’ experience of the New Forest.
Sutton Valence School
James Thomas has begun his new role as headmaster at Sutton Valence School in Kent. He received his undergraduate degree in theology from Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge and holds an MA in educational leadership from the University of London, as well as the National Professional Qualification for Headship.
In his early career he was head of department (theology and philosophy) at both Dulwich College and Wellington College, where he was in charge of Oxford and Cambridge applications. He then became director of studies at Harrow International School Hong Kong before moving to The British School in Tokyo.
Pearson Online Academy UK Global
New online international school Pearson Online Academy UK Global has announced the appointment of Jo Vigneron to the role of founding principal. Vigneron brings with her over 20 years of educational expertise. She has played a key role in the opening of two schools in the UAE and is now aiming to make Pearson Online Academy the “best online school in the world”.
Having grown up in Nigeria, Vigneron’s career has encompassed key leader positions, teacher and lecturer roles in London, New York, Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi. “I look forward to all the adventures that lie ahead,” said Vigneron.
Solihull School
Charles Fillingham will be joining Solihull School from Francis Holland School as executive head in January 2023. Fillingham has served in boys’, girls’ and co-educational schools, including five years as director of studies and acting head of lower school at Archbishop Tenison’s CE High School in Croydon, and eight years as deputy headmaster at City of London School for Boys.
He is a modern linguist with a PGCE from Bristol University. He holds two master’s degrees: one from Jesus College, Oxford and one from King’s College, London. He succeeds David EJJ Lloyd, who will step down from the role after 12 years at the school.
Send your school’s staff appointments news to jo.golding@wildfirecomms.co.uk
