Headteacher of The Willink School in Burghfield Common retires after 16 years

A West Berkshire headteacher has retired after 16 years of “remarkable leadership”.

The Willink School, in Burghfield Common, has bid farewell to Peter Fry, who joined in 2007.

Starting as a geography teacher, Mr Fry eventually became headteacher.

Championing the school’s motto, “village school, global outlook", Mr Fry led The Willink’s transformation into an international school and the lead school for the Mobius Maths Hub, gaining recognition from the Department for Education.

His resilience and dedication to his staff have been instrumental in navigating educational reform, financial constraints and the Covid pandemic.

On announcing his retirement, Mr Fry said: “I am fortunate that throughout my career in teaching and school leadership, I have been privileged to work with many amazing, highly talented and committed staff, teachers, senior staff, governors and, of course, students, but none more so than at The Willink.

“It has been an honour to lead our wonderful school and I will greatly miss working with such a fantastic group of staff and students.

“Over the last 16 years, the school has changed significantly in size, in facilities and in student outcomes, but The Willink remains a very special community.”

Staff hosted a series of celebrations during Mr Fry’s final week featuring musical performances, decorations and a book of thank-you messages.

Mr Fry plans to continue his work in education, focusing on school improvement, professional development and school inspection.

Former deputy head Nicolle Browning will officially assume the position of headteacher in September and looks forward to building on the foundations laid by Mr Fry and shaping the school's future.