Headmaster announces plans to step down after more than a decade at Wellingborough School

A headmaster has announced that he will be stepping down after more than 13 years at the helm.
Garry Bowe and wife RuthGarry Bowe and wife Ruth
Garry Bowe and wife Ruth

Headmaster of Wellingborough School Garry Bowe has said that he intends to move on from the school in December 2017 after what will have been more than 13 years of service.

Mr Bowe took over as headmaster in the summer of 2004, having first served as deputy head at the school for three years.

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He went into teaching in 1981 and throughout his career has continued to teach both history and politics, as well as among other things maintaining a passion for the performing arts and coaching rugby, football and cricket.

Mr Bowe and his wife Ruth have also been heavily involved in the local community, including fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support and establishing and developing the successful Wellingborough Community Gospel Choir.

On his decision to step down, Mr Bowe said: “Wellingborough School has been much more than a job; it is a community, it has been our home and my whole family has given its life to Wellingborough and Wellingborough has given so much to us. “Both of our children, Rory and Emily, benefited from the wonderful all-round Wellingborough education and their success and happy school years are typical of so many of our pupils.”

Mr Bowe added: “Hopefully we have contributed to the success of the ‘family of schools’ as it has gone from strength to strength.

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“The school has increased in size, seen major building developments with the introduction of the Jubilee Entrance on London Road, in art and sport as well as the renovation of all of the houses and refurbishment of academic departments. “However, more importantly in my view we are most proud of what visitors unfailingly describe as the welcoming, happy and inclusive feel of the school.

“The governors have ambitious plans for science and humanities that I am confident will further strengthen the school, however, I believe that now is the time to look for fresh challenges wherever or whatever they may be.

“The school is in a very strong position academically, pastorally and in its co-curricular provision and most of all it is a fun environment in which to live and work.

“I am sure, because of this, that the school will attract someone of calibre to the privileged role of head.”

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He added: “In terms of what I shall miss most, moving on from Wellingborough will be hugely difficult and there is no doubt that above all else it will be the friendship of colleagues, parents and pupils.

“I started a career in education as a schoolmaster because of my love of sharing in, contributing to and celebrating the development of young people regardless of their abilities, interests, and even their mistakes.

“That is something which I retain 35 years later and joining in the fun and laughter when working with young people is the greatest privilege.

“As for what the future may bring there will be cycling, travel and ‘bad’ golf but I am excited to say we have no specific plans.

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“I hope that I can transfer my energy and skills to other activities – neither Ruth nor I are ready to sink into our armchairs.”

Chairman of governors, Dr Jonathan Cox, said: “Mr Bowe has led the school with unerring passion and commitment for 12 years and pupils, staff and parents – past and present – are very grateful for all that he has done over this time.

“He has been a part of the lives of so many of the young people who have passed through our gates, and for that we express our sincerest thanks, and wish him and his family well in their futures.

“Mr Bowe leaves the school a vibrant and thriving community, and we now look towards appointing a new head who will continue the successful leadership of our school.”