Steyning C of E Primary School are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Simon Phipps as their permanent headteacher, having been the acting headteacher since Sue Harrison retired earlier this academic year.

Simon hails from West Bromwich in the West Midlands. He studied American History at The University of Kent which included a year living and working in San Diego. Football (particularly West Bromwich Albion) is his main passion and he spent 15 years working in football media, travelling to football stadiums 4-5 days a week

However, after so long in the job, it was no longer fulfilling so when the opportunity arose, Simon took voluntary redundancy and travelled the world for three years to consider his next move.

He decided that the world of education beckoned and he completed his PGCE at The University of East London in 2008.

After gaining his teaching qualification, Simon spent the next 12 years progressing in schools in Barking, Brighton and Lancing before joining Steyning C of E Primary as deputy head in January 2020. Simon has brought so much to the school since his arrival including a total refresh of the foundation subjects, helping the school improve in accordance with the school development plan and most recently leading the team to achieve a secure 'Good' grading from Ofsted in October 2023 which the entire staff were delighted with.

He now looks forward to a long, happy and successful career as the permanent head of the school.

Simon said what he loves most about Steyning Primary is the family feeling and the Christian community vibe.

He has enjoyed connecting with Father Mark and the church family at St. Andrew's and St. Cuthman's Church and is excited about generating even stronger links in the future.

Staff, governors, children and parents were ecstatic to hear news of his appointment as he is such a kind, approachable and cheerful figurehead for the school who knows and values each and every member of the school community; we know you will all welcome and embrace him as the leader of our village primary school.