Leading Churcher’s College: Insights from Simon Williams
As part of Absolutely’s conversations with 10 school leaders about their educational visions, we spoke with Simon Williams, Headmaster of Churcher’s College, to hear his insights.
Question: What was your first Headship role and what would you say you learnt from it?
Answer: I have had only one Headship role so far and, 21 years in, I recognise two key things: the first is that I have been incredibly fortunate to find the right school, in the right place, and one that’s also the right fit for me. During my time on the HMC membership committee, I’ve sometimes seen great Heads who aren’t able to fully display their quality because the style of school does not align with their nature or educational ethos – ‘fit’ is important.
The second is that a great school is built on the strength of its staff, both teaching and support. Appointing the right people, and then enthusing and enabling them, is possibly the most critical part of my role.
Question: What attracted you to working at Churcher’s College?
Answer: When I was looking for a school, I had three young children. I wanted a place which would nurture their talents and aspirations, however, given they were two, six and seven years old at the time, I had no idea what those talents and aspirations might be. I sought a school where the value system suggested there wasn’t a hierarchy of activity; there was an equality of recognition and reward in which being in the 1st XV wasn’t considered more important than excelling as an artist, or being an artist was no more significant than being a musician, or an academic, or an actor.
As an all-through school, Churcher’s also offered a natural flow, a continuity of ethos, values, and education which develops a real sense of belonging, and lasting friendships. As a Head, there is the added delight of seeing a three-year-old brimming with potential become an 18-year-old, fulfilling it.
Question: What is your vision for the future of your school?
Answer: A school thrives on energy and enthusiasm. If you can persuade teenagers to get out of bed early on a cold, wet, winter morning without having to push too hard, and they come into school willingly, with a smile, immersing themselves fully, then you have the kernel of success. My vision is to sustain that excitement and engagement amongst the children in a world where so many pressures push in the other direction.
