Mike retired as CEO of Chulmleigh Academy Trust in 2025. He has 35 years’ experience as a teacher in schools in State schools, including 21 years as a secondary school headteacher. He sits on the Academic Committee.
After reading history at The University College, Bangor, Mike completed a PGCE at The University College, Aberystwyth. He started his teaching career at The Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester then joined The Castle School in Taunton in 1994 as Head of History. He was appointed Senior Teacher in 1999 and then joined Penryn College in 2001 as Deputy Headteacher.
At Chulmleigh, Mike has overseen a transformational development in the school and its facilities. In recent years, the school has grown by more than 40%, with its reputation across Devon such that it is the chosen school for many families who live a great distance outside its designated school area. At its most recent inspection, Ofsted commented on its “strong leadership, a strong emphasis on the performing arts, a collegiate approach, very high expectations and excellent standards of conduct”.
Mike is a passionate believer in helping children become socially mobile.
When time and family allow, he is a keen cyclist and enjoys French food and drink.
