Richard will continue as Headteacher of Great Hollands Primary School alongside this new role, providing continuity for the Great Hollands community while also supporting improvement across our other primary schools. 

Richard has over 25 years in education, with more than 20 years in senior leadership and over a decade as Headteacher. He was designated a National Leader of Education by the Department for Education in 2022 and has supported schools across the South of England through improvement work and complex challenges. He is passionate about ensuring every child can thrive, regardless of background or circumstance. 

Richard said: 

“I am committed to fostering strong, collaborative relationships across the hub so that best practice is consistently shared and every child benefits from a high-quality education. For me, this means ensuring that all pupils, regardless of background, experience an ambitious curriculum, excellent teaching, and the right support to thrive personally as well as academically.” 

Andy Johnson, Director of Education, added: 

“This strategic role will play a pivotal part in strengthening collaboration across our primary schools. Richard brings a wealth of experience, and we look forward to his work with Headteachers to ensure that all pupils benefit from consistently high standards of teaching, care and support, enabling them to thrive and achieve their full potential.” 

What this means for families 

• Even stronger leadership and relationships across our primary schools. 

• Shared expertise between Headteachers, so good ideas and effective approaches spread quickly. 

• Consistent high standards for teaching and learning. 

• Greater opportunities for pupils to benefit from the full strength of Maiden Erlegh Trust. 

We are excited about what this means for our primary pupils and families, and we look forward to the positive impact Richard’s leadership will bring. 

#TeamMET #PrimaryEducation #WorkingTogether #Inclusion #AmbitionForAll