Please login with your username and password to access members' contact details, members' news, obituaries, previous newsletters, the document library and the contact form.
It’s not every day that you get a chance to write your own obituary, or at least that’s what it feels like.
I write to introduce myself as the new Head of Abbotsholme School: your school. I was educated at Arnold School, Blackpool where I attended as a boarder from 1966-1977 before going on to study a Joint Honours degree in Physical Education and Sports Science and History at Loughborough University. It was here that I also successfully completed my PGCE before taking up a post at the Royal Grammar School, Colchester, as a boarder master and PE teacher. Eight years later, I moved to Devon with my wife and two boys to the place where I had been appointed as Head of PE and Games. Something of a ‘Mr Chips’ career followed, and from 1989 to 2013, I experienced life at Shebbear College as a member of the SMT, Head of Boarding, Timetabler, Examinations Officer, Deputy Head and then Headteacher. All of this was in addition to being a PE, Psychology and History teacher.
I retired, as planned, at 55 with the intention of travelling, playing more golf and actively enjoying ‘me’ time: it was a slightly unrealistic plan! Within the year I started to help with the recruitment of overseas pupils, and shortly afterwards was asked by the Methodist Schools to help mentor a young Head at a local prep school. More recently, I have acted as Programme Director for Oxford Royale, running three two-week residential courses for 185 students aged 13-15 who were housed in the halls of residence at Oxford University. Then, in late October, I received a phone call………..and the rest, as they say, is history.
I have yet to visit any of the surrounding area since arriving at Abbotsholme, but do know the inside of my office very well. To say it’s been a whirlwind is probably true. Normally this would bring connotations of impending doom and disaster, but that would be misrepresenting this great school with a big heart. I have been most impressed by the warmth and courtesy that has been extended to me by all whom I have met, particularly the pupils, parents and staff, and I have been treated to some wonderful moments during this past month not least Bonfire Night, Congo singing in school, the 6th Form Formal Dinner and ‘Christmas at Abbotsholme’.
I am already looking forward to what lies ahead, and wish you all a Happy Christmas.
Best regards,
Bob Barnes