Welcoming our new Headmaster

This April, we welcome Mr Silk back to Perrott Hill as Headmaster. Having served the school as Deputy Head for 15 years, he already knows it well. Ahead of his arrival, we caught up with him to ask a few questions.

What does Perrott Hill mean to you?

I care deeply about this school and the community connected to it. To be part of Perrott Hill, is to be part of something positive and purposeful, something that is greater than ourselves but from which we all benefit. I also feel great personal pride in its distinguished history, traditions, values and ethos.

What do you enjoy most about working in education?

Seeing young people achieve their full potential – not just academically but personally too – is deeply rewarding. It is why I believe so strongly in the importance of a rich and varied co-curricular programme so pupils can discover where their interests lie, and have an opportunity to develop their own unique talents.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe in a child-centred approach to teaching that is tailored to the needs of the individual, encourages their curiosity and is relevant to the world which they inhabit. I am also a great believer in the value of what happens outside of the classroom, and the lifelong lessons they teach children on how to navigate the world around them.

What do you believe are the most important values for schools to instil in children?

Good manners never go out of fashion. Being kind and polite, listening carefully to the views and opinions of others and showing consideration and respect will serve children well. This also includes good table manners! I believe we should always have high expectations of behaviour, as invariably the children will rise to meet them.

In addition, having a positive attitude and being willing to ‘have a go’ – whether that is in the classroom, on the sports field or the stage – is another important value to instil in children. I want children to leave school as enthusiastic, life-long learners who embrace every opportunity they are given.

What are the benefits of attending a school in a rural setting?

Since 1946 our rural setting has shaped and defined the education we provide. It’s part of our mission statement as this historic estate, with 28 acres of fields, formal gardens and woodland, gives children ‘time and space for a full education’. In part this means spending time outside – the health benefits of which are well documented.

Our wonderful setting always allows us to provide ‘a proper childhood’. One that is filled with a sense of freedom and adventure, and when our alumni return and reminisce about endless, carefree sunny days outside, we know we have achieved that.

How do you like to spend your spare time?

Out of school, in the hours of daylight and when not on family holidays in North Cornwall, you can usually find me in the garden, clad in overalls and wellington boots indulging my inner farmer. As the light goes the chances are you will find me by the fire with a good book.

What is your vision for Perrott Hill?

Perrott Hill School is part of the Perrott Hill Education Group, who have recently committed to an ambitious five-year investment and development plan, so this is a very exciting moment in the history of the school. Being part of an international group of schools means we can maintain the ‘magic’ of Perrott Hill while also providing pupils with a first-class education that equips them for the future.

My vision is that over the next five years we will broaden horizons and increase opportunities for pupils, while being relevant to the needs of the community we serve. I want to celebrate our history and heritage while growing the school so that generations of children to come can benefit from the education we provide here.