Chris Partridge

Executive Head at Wessex Learning Trust

United Kingdom

About

As an experienced education leader, I have a proven track record of providing targeted support and guidance to newly appointed headteachers, ensuring they have the skills, confidence, and strategic insight needed to thrive in their roles. With over 19 years of experience as a headteacher, 12 at St Pauls CofE VC Junior School, I have a deep understanding of what it takes to create a positive and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic and personal growth for every pupil. In addition to mentoring new headteachers, I have also worked closely with the Local Authority to provide critical intervention and support for schools facing challenging circumstances. Whether navigating financial crises, staff shortages, safeguarding issues, or leadership transitions, I have helped schools implement effective action plans, stabilise their operations, and foster resilience for long-term success. My goal is always to support schools in building sustainable and successful futures for their students and communities.

Experience

  • Executive Head at Wessex Learning Trust

  • Local Leader in Education at Somerset Council
    Jan 2015 - Aug 2024 · 9 yrs 8 mos

    With a wealth of experience as a Local Leader in Education, I specialized in providing targeted support and guidance to newly appointed headteachers, ensuring they have the skills, confidence, and strategic insight needed to thrive in their roles. In addition to mentoring new headteachers, I worked closely with the Local Authority to provide critical intervention and support for schools facing challenging circumstances. Whether navigating financial crises, staff shortages, safeguarding issues, or leadership transitions, I helped schools implement effective action plans, stabilize their operations, and foster resilience for long-term success. My goal was always to support schools in building sustainable leadership capacity and thriving in the face of adversity.

  • Headteacher at St Pauls CofE VC Junior School
    Sep 2011 - Aug 2024 · 13 yrs

    Leading St. Paul's CofE VC Junior School, was an incredibly rewarding part of my career. As headteacher, I had the privilege of working with a dedicated and passionate team of staff who were deeply committed to the success and well-being of every pupil. Together, we fostered a positive and inclusive learning environment, ensuring that each child had the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.

  • Mentor for CofE NPQH Leaders at The Church of England Foundation for Educational Leadership
    Mar 2016 - Jul 2016 · 5 mos

    As part of my mentoring role, I have had the privilege of supporting headteachers in Church of England schools as they pursued their National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Working alongside aspiring school leaders, I provided guidance, mentorship, and practical advice throughout their leadership development journey, with a particular focus on the distinctive ethos and values of church schools.

  • Headteacher at Woolavington Village Primary School
    Sep 2004 - Aug 2011 · 7 yrs