Martin Reader, the popular and dynamic headmaster of Wellington School, has resigned to take up a new post of head of an independent school in Surrey.
He will take over at Cranleigh School, near Guildford, in September 2014, The governors paid tribute to Mr Reader’s acheivements at Wellington. “He will have been Headmaster here for eight years, “ they said in a statement.
“It is testimony to the quality of Wellington School that his work in building on the excellence of our School has been recognised by Cranleigh School, and on behalf of the governors we would like to congratulate Martin, Amanda and the family on this new challenge.”
Some parents have expressed surprise at Mr Reader’s decision. “It’s about the same size as Wellington and about the same sort of academic level,” said one. “So it’s not as if Martin’s off to be headmaster of Eton or Rugby. Some of us are a bit puzzled.” However, Mr Reader has connections to Surrey, having been Deputy Head of nearby Reigate Grammar prior to joining Wellington.
However the governors are confident about the future. “The length of notice means that we will be able to secure the best possible person to be the next Head. Wellington has an excellent reputation nationally and locally for the quality of its academic results, the excellence of its sport, music and drama and for the friendliness and purposefulness of its pupils and their supportive parents,” their statement continued. “We will undoubtedly attract a very strong field and can be sure that the new Head will be an outstanding leader to continue Wellington’s growth. In the New Year, I will let you know the appointments process the governors decide to undertake in order that we can announce the new Head by the end of the summer term.”
“The governors, Headmaster and his excellent leadership team have a strategic plan in place to ensure that the School continues the momentum for improvement noted by last year’s inspection and we are all committed to ensuring that your children receive the best possible education.”