Photo: Paul Ryan receives his award (image courtesy of SEK Social Enterprise Kent)
This summer marks both an end and a celebration for Paul Ryan, Headteacher of St. Margaret’s Collier Street Primary School, who has been named Kent Headteacher of the Year at the prestigious Kent Education Awards.
The Kent Education Awards celebrate the commitment and dedication of those working in education. This year, Paul’s name joins a long list of inspiring educators recognised for the transformative role they play in young people’s lives.
Paul says he is delighted to have received this award:
"It has been an absolute privilege to serve the school community. I would like to thank past and present staff, governors and families for supporting each other on the journey we have all been on over the last 20 years.
"As I retire in a matter of weeks, I wish my successor and the whole school continued success.”
Paul began his teaching journey at Luton Primary in Chatham in 1993. After five formative years, he took on a leadership role as Key Stage 2 Leader at All Saints’ in Maidstone, his first Church of England school.
From there, he moved to St. John’s Grove Green in 2001 as Deputy Headteacher before being appointed Headteacher at St. Margaret’s in September 2005.
Since then, Paul has shaped the school into a vibrant and caring environment, deeply rooted in values of friendship, respect, helpfulness and fairness.
Under his leadership, St. Margaret’s has achieved four successful OFSTED inspections and been awarded two consecutive ‘Outstanding’ SIAMS judgments—achievements Paul describes as personally significant.
Beyond academic success, Paul has overseen major improvements to the school’s facilities, including the construction of new classrooms, a children’s kitchen for cookery lessons, an expanded outdoor area featuring a Forest School, garden, orchard, and a spiritual garden opened by Bishop Simon in 2024.
These developments have enhanced both the physical and spiritual learning environment, creating a unique and nurturing space for pupils.
Throughout his career, Paul has also supported other local small church schools, acting as interim Headteacher for both Laddingford and Hunton, mentoring new school leaders, and fostering collaboration among nearby schools through shared training, moderation, subject leadership, and events.
As Paul prepares for retirement after two decades of service at the heart of a close-knit school community, John Constanti, Director of Education for the Rochester Diocesan Board of Education, says the award is a fitting tribute to a remarkable career in education that has spanned more than 30 years:
“Paul’s dedicated, long, and committed service to Collier Street St Margaret’s CE Primary School and its community is quite extraordinary. As he steps away from his role, it is clear that Paul leaves behind a legacy of care, growth, and excellence—one that will continue to shape the school and its community for years to come.
He adds:
"We are most grateful indeed to Paul and send him thanks and all best wishes for his retirement”