About the Headteacher

"I was born in Reading and grew up in Thatcham, where I was lucky enough to be part of a family who modelled compassion, curiosity, kindness and love each and every day. Even as a boy, I definitely had a passion for helping others and an intrinsic enjoyment of learning that has never left me. My grandmother (Edith Kirk, an inspirational lady who gave me my lifelong love of music) and my Aunt had both been teachers, and it soon became clear that it was my proud  calling to continue the family tradition. 

I gained my BA(Ed) Maths from Reading University where I enjoyed the chance to work with children of lots of different ages. I still remember my first week as a teaching student helping a young boy (aged 5) with his phonics and watching his eyes light up as he was able to read some new words independently for the first time. It felt like a very special privilege then, and the that feeling has definitely not lessened over time. 

As of September 2021, I have taken on the role of headteacher of Clatford CE Primary School. My aim, as it always has been, is for children to leave our school as passionate lifelong learners who are secure in their Christian values and feel happy, safe, and confident in their ability to continue to flourish as they take their next steps into the wider world. I want children to have the opportunity to discover their passions and build their aspirational hopes. 

At Clatford school, we learn and grow together, with love, respect and courage. These are not just words here, but sit at the heart of everything we do together as a school. It is my aspiration and that of my team supported by the Governors, that when the time comes for our children to move on, they will take away many special memories which will provide them with the key building blocks for their future learning and their adult life. I hope that above all else the children will look back at their time at Clatford with a real sense of achievement and enjoyment and feel proud of being part of the school. I know that through the dedication and compassion of all of our staff, governors, parents and the support of our local church and community, we can achieve this for each and every child."

Matthew Kirk (2023)