Headteacher Appointment

On Friday 5th June, families received the below letter from Trust CEO, Tom Leverage, regarding Millbay Academy's official Headteacher appointment.

Matthew has been part of Millbay Academy for over a decade, having joined at the very inception of the original Plymouth School of Creative Arts and contributing to its early planning stages. His long-standing involvement has given him a unique understanding of the school’s development, its challenges and its transformation into the thriving academy it is today.

Throughout his time at Millbay and Reach South Academy, Matthew has played a central role in shaping the school’s culture, supporting staff and driving improvements that have strengthened Millbay’s reputation.

Matthew’s leadership has been instrumental in several major developments, including:

• Leading Millbay’s successful Ofsted journey, culminating in a Good rating that recognised the school’s progress and potential.

• Strengthening teaching and learning standards, ensuring high-quality classroom practice and consistent expectations across all phases.

• Building strong relationships within the community, working closely with families, local organisations, and partners who share the school’s values.

• Supporting Millbay’s work towards becoming a School of Sanctuary, reinforcing the school’s commitment to inclusion, safety, and belonging for every student.

• Establishing a new partnership with Arts University Plymouth (AUP), creating creative pathways and enrichment opportunities for pupils across the school.

• Overseeing the implementation of Millbay’s new-build expansion, including the addition of 15 new classrooms. This significant project is ongoing, and the school is confident that Matthew’s steady leadership will guide it successfully through to completion.

Matthew’s educational and professional journey reflects a blend of creativity, leadership, and academic excellence. After studying Fine Art at the Surrey Institute of Art, he completed his PGCE at Bath Spa University. He has continued to advance his expertise, most recently earning an MBA in Strategic Leadership from the University of Buckingham and achieving Chartered Manager status with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

Beyond Millbay, Matthew has contributed to the wider educational landscape as a guest lecturer at Arts University Plymouth, through education research with Tate England, and in his role as Chair of Trustees for House of Imagination, a charity dedicated to creative learning experiences for children and young people.

Deeply rooted in Plymouth and committed to the community he serves, Matthew has been a trusted and respected leader at Millbay for many years. His permanent appointment provides stability, continuity, and a clear vision for the future as the school continues its mission to empower pupils to think creatively, act with purpose, and make meaningful contributions to their futures and to the city of Plymouth.

Matthew has expressed his excitement for the next chapter and his dedication to ensuring every student at Millbay thrives academically, socially, and personally.

Millbay Academy looks forward to the next phase of its development under Matthew’s leadership and celebrates this important moment for the school and its community.