King Solomon High School in Redbridge has announced the appointment of an interim head to take the reins from Michele Phillips who left the school last week after eight terms in charge.
Jonathan Harris, who has previously headed two Church of England secondary schools, will assume his position at the end of June.
Until that time KSHS deputy head Thomas Larini will be acting co-headteacher alongside Harris, supported by former JFS executive headteacher Debby Lipkin and former JFS chief operations officer Jamie Peston.
Harris “brings extensive experience of headship across a range of educational contexts, including leadership roles within large multi-academy trusts and the headship of two faith-based schools,” KSHS chair of governors David Collins told parents.
“He has a strong track record of building on existing strengths, working collaboratively with staff and communities, and establishing firm foundations for sustained success and improved outcomes for students.”
Incoming King Solomon head: Jonathan Harris (photo: LinkedIn)[Missing Credit]
Harris said throughout his career he had “focused on building on the existing strengths of the schools I have led, working collaboratively with staff and communities to establish strong foundations for sustained success and improved outcomes for students.
“These experiences have shaped a deep respect for the distinctive character and values that faith schools embody, and the important role they play in supporting both academic achievement and personal development.”
His approach to leadership was rooted, he said, “ in a clear commitment to developing both staff and students, ensuring that every individual is supported to grow and succeed, guided by a strong sense of purpose, community and responsibility, and underpinned by the enduring message of Sefer Yirmiyahu (Jeremiah) 29:11 and its promise of ‘hope and a future’.”
In a letter to parents, Collins paid tribute to Phillips’ “extraordinary” commitment to the school. Under her leadership, King Solomon had “strengthened its focus on standards, developed a clear sense of purpose, and embedded a culture of professionalism and high expectations.
"She has worked tirelessly with staff and students alike to build an environment where ambition, resilience and strong values are central to daily life.”
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