Principal

Stoke College, with its remarkable history that dates back to the 11th Century, is located in beautiful Suffolk countryside, in Stoke by Clare near Sudbury, and is set in tranquil parkland overlooking the upper reaches of the River Stour.

The College prides itself on providing a forward thinking and academically ambitious education. Students are taught in small classes, enhanced with an exciting diploma programme of extra-curricular activities. The College offers a unique educational experience where individual potential is realised. It is a place where happy students thrive and achieve. The College currently has approximately 150 students, but with investment ready, and plans in place for developing the facilities, it will eventually grow to a capacity of over 400 students.

Stoke College is on an extraordinary journey. A journey which involves a significant commitment to the future of all the children. Investment in buildings and technology are key to this plan. Over the next few years, Stoke College will change substantially as new classrooms and boarding facilities are developed. The dedicated Board of educational investors are committed fully to the exciting evolution of their school. Underpinning their philosophy is a teaching and learning strategy which is both progressive and reflective: they understand young people think and learn differently, and they prioritise the personal touch, whilst recognising that the future world will be radically different from our own. The College’s bespoke ethos for education, The Stoke Approach, puts inspiration and individual attention at the forefront of their academic offer, ensuring that every student achieves their best. Through a wide range of shared activities, both inside and outside the classroom, they develop communication skills and nurture empathy among young people.

As a relatively small school with massive ambition, the College has embarked on the development of a student offer which embraces the subjects which cover Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Humanities and Art (STEMHA). Key to this student offer is the deployment of technology which fully supports the teaching, learning and assessment principles of the College.  Schemes of work, lesson plans, assessment data are available to teachers and students alike, allowing full ownership to be assumed by students. The technology is the brainchild of one of the UK’s leading educators and has been designed around the teaching methods deployed in the best performing colleges in the UK. The new Principal will take the lead on the continued implementation of the technology, the changing learning environment and the teaching principles associated with a high performing College.

Stoke College is on a journey toward academic excellence in a nurturing environment supporting students in achieving their career aspirations. In their appointment of a new Principal, the CEO and Board are keen to consider either an experienced school leader who will appreciate and realise the journey that the College is going on, or an ambitious new leader who has the potential to grow with the College, potentially a Deputy or Senior Deputy Head at present.