Head's Welcome

It gives me huge pleasure on behalf of all of the team, children and governors to warmly welcome you to our wonderful school.

I am so proud to be the Headteacher of this fantastic school. The entire St. Andrew's staff team is dedicated to ensuring that every child is known, loved and cherished and I absolutely love getting to know all of the children here, as they truly are what makes the job so enjoyable and fulfilling.

My teaching career spans over 32 years and I was fortunate to complete my PGCE at Newcastle University after my first degree. Following university, I taught in a variety of schools in Kent, East Sussex and Brighton and Hove. I have also been a National Leader of Education, supporting a number of schools in other local authorities with leadership and school improvement.

I have been a Headteacher since 2007; for eleven years at a rural one form entry school, that was also a Teaching School, then at St. Andrew’s since January 2019. The job is both interesting and demanding, but it is ultimately highly rewarding. I love seeing the children grow and develop into unique and wonderful human beings who contribute to our school community, making it the very special place that it is.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. My hobbies include reading, upholstery, surfing, walking, Pilates, watching sport especially football, tennis and athletics. I used to play the piano and violin as a child and teenager and am determined to re-learn the piano near to the standard I used to be at one of these days! Likewise, I am a former LTA tennis coach and I hope to start playing tennis again.

If you would like to find out more about life at St. Andrew's or arrange a visit to the school, please contact our reception team.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

Sophie Thomas - Headteacher