Meet our Headteacher
Welcome to our school website! We are England's most northerly high school, nestled on Northumberland's border with Scotland in the historic and beautiful town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. In April 2025, I took up the position of Headteacher. I joined Berwick Academy as Assistant Headteacher for Personal Development in May 2022, having previously served as Headteacher at Berwick Middle School since 2018. Before that, I was Deputy Headteacher at Tweedmouth Middle School and have held various roles in schools across the North East over the past 24 years.
During my time at Berwick Academy, I have seen the school make encouraging progress, including receiving a ‘Good’ rating for Personal Development from Ofsted in 2024—our first such outcome in many years. However, after nine years working in Berwick, I am fully aware of the significant challenges ahead. It is my responsibility—and ambition—to ensure the school delivers the high standard of education that our students and community deserve. While I feel the weight of responsibility of this task, I am genuinely excited by the opportunity and committed to working closely with community I serve.
My goal is for every student to feel safe, be happy, and achieve success.
We will be focusing on four key priorities:
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Raising student outcomes – ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.
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Improving school culture – promoting engagement, happiness, and clear communication with parents and the wider community.
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Supporting student transition – strengthening support for students joining us from middle schools and, in the future, from primary schools.
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Delivering a new school building – working with Northumberland County Council to secure improved facilities.
I look forward to updating you regularly on our progress and would be pleased to welcome any parent who wishes to visit the school or learn more about our work.
Ben Ryder
Headteacher
