Skippers Hill appoints new Headteacher from September 2020

News

Bellevue Education is delighted to announce the appointment of Phillip Makhouli as the new Headmaster of Skippers Hill Manor Prep School. Phillip, who was appointed following a thorough and rigorous recruitment process, will join the school in September 2020 when outgoing Head, Mark Hammond, takes up his new position of Headmaster of Bede’s Prep School.

Mr Makhouli, currently Director of Teaching and Learning at Holmewood House School in Tunbridge Wells, has a degree in Electrical Engineering from The University of the Highlands and Islands.  He spent the early part of his career working as an engineer in the nuclear industry where, unfulfilled, he felt called into education. He enrolled for a PGDE course in Primary Education at the University of Aberdeen with a clear desire to inspire children with a lifelong love of learning and a sense of curiosity and awe for the world around them and the potential within.

In confirming the appointment, Bellevue Education CEO Mark Malley said “I am delighted that we have appointed Phillip Makhouli as Headmaster at Skippers Hill Manor School. Phillip is an innovative and strategic leader and brings with him substantial and varied experience.  He is a worthy successor to Mark Hammond and I have no doubt that his passion and outstanding abilities will enable him to continue building upon the success of the school and its pupils.”

His teaching career began in 2008, and over the last 12 years his experiences have been both diverse and rewarding. This has included schools in the Highlands of Scotland, inner-city London and latterly senior leadership at a leading and thriving prep school in leafy Kent.

Additionally, Mr Makhouli is Chair of The Teaching and Learning Committee and SEND Governor at the Tunbridge Wells Free School.  As a former semi-professional football player, he spends his spare time coaching his son’s local football team, climbing and, when he had more time, cultivating the family allotment.  Mr Makhouli will be joined at Skippers by his wife Sophie and their son.

Commenting on his appointment Mr Makhouli said “My family and I are delighted to be joining Skippers Hill and becoming a part of its community. During my visit I was struck by the warmth and positivity of everyone I met. I feel privileged to be given the opportunity to lead such a happy, forward-thinking and dynamic school and I very much look forward to the years ahead.”