Find out more
Phil first joined Wellington to teach PE and Sports Science in 2008, before leaving in 2010 to become Director of Sport at Reigate Grammar School. Returning to Wellington in 2018 with his wife Bex and young family, Phil has been an exceptional Housemaster of the Hill, coached First XI cricket and has led the US Universities programme across the College. We caught up with Phil to find out his thoughts about his new role.
What sort of pupils do you think thrive at Wellington – and what are you looking for?
‘Happy and independent pupils thrive anywhere, and especially so at Wellington. We want all our pupils to realise their potential, have the confidence to learn new skills, try new activities, and hone their passions during their Wellington journey. It is important to me that every pupil makes the most of all that is on offer here, while also leaving their mark on the College.’
How do you think the Wellington selection process helps identify youngsters who will be perfectly suited to Wellington?
‘Our holistic approach enables us to see prospective pupils across a variety of activities and scenarios. We are invested in finding out as much as we can about each candidate and this is further supported and enhanced by our strong relationships with feeder schools, and the skill of our HMs when they interview each applicant. This process allows us to have as complete a view of each pupil as possible, so that we can make the right decision for each child, their family, and year group cohort.’
What advice would you give to anybody thinking about applying to Wellington?
‘Do it! It is an incredible place with so many talented and dedicated members of staff who want pupils to succeed and are always willing to go the extra mile for them. Wellingtonians are incredibly proud of their school, and rightly so. There is an infectious atmosphere at the College -a belief that anything is possible – which is driven by the students. They are the most talented young people I have ever had the privilege to work with and every pupil in every house, be they day or boarding, offers something special to the community.’
What excites you about your new role, and what are your hopes for the future?
‘The opportunity to shape the future of Wellington College as well as building strong relationships with all schools be they, prep, primary, or international. I particularly enjoy meeting prospective families and enjoy the special bond is created and nurtured. Our new Day boy House, right at the heart of college, is an exciting development, and I love the way pupils who join at 16+ integrate so quickly. I’m excited by the strength of our Sixth Form provision: we offer both A-level and IB, we are building a new Sixth Form Boarding House and a new Sixth Form Centre, and we continue to develop our UK and US University programme. Above all, the fact that we will have equal numbers of boys and girls in 2025 excites me: I am convinced that Co-education at Wellington creates the very best environment for all pupils to flourish and grow.’
