Statement from Andy Johnson, Headteacher (Maiden Erlegh School in Reading)

I am delighted to congratulate Will Graham on becoming our school’s new headteacher. From his visits to the school and throughout the appointment process, Will has impressed staff and students with his values driven approach to leadership, warm personality and sharp thinking. He has a clear vision for the next stage in the development of our fantastic school, not least strengthening our community links and our engagement with parents. As I move on to other responsibilities in Maiden Erlegh Trust, I am very confident that the school and its future is in very safe hands. It is time for a new chapter to be written, and Will is exactly the right person to lead the school community to write it.

Statement from Mary Davies, CEO (Maiden Erlegh Trust)

We were looking for an exceptional candidate to build on the strengths embedded in the school by Andy Johnson and his team. We are therefore delighted that Will Graham will be joining our Trust as Headteacher of Maiden Erlegh School in Reading. He brings with him experience, drive and a track record of success. Most importantly, he shares our values of community and ambitious inclusion. We look forward to working with him.

Statement from Will Graham, newly appointed Headteacher (September 2022)

I am delighted to have been appointed as the new Headteacher of Maiden Erlegh School in Reading. I feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to take over the leadership of the school and will do my very best to work with staff, students, parents, governors and the Trust to build on the strong foundations created by Andy Johnson and his team.

 Having lived in Wokingham for 24 years, seen my 3 children educated in their local school and worked for over 30 years across 6 secondary schools, I am acutely aware of the importance of an excellent school experience for every young person. 

I have been so impressed with the young people that I have met whilst visiting the school on several occasions recently; they have been polite, respectful and spoken very positively about their school, especially the diversity of their community and the way that this is acknowledged and celebrated. 

I am very excited to join the school in September and to work with you to maximise the opportunities for every child to succeed.