Meet Incoming Head, Mr King
Silcoates School is delighted to welcome Mr Phil King as its new Head from September 2025. With extensive leadership experience in independent education, Phil is passionate about helping pupils reach their full potential, while fostering a supportive and inspiring learning environment.
Ahead of the new academic year, we asked Phil a few questions to learn more about his journey, first impressions, and his vision for the future at Silcoates. Find out what he had to share below.
Tell us about your career to date.
I qualified as an English teacher in 1999, and over the past 25 years, I have taught in five schools across South Yorkshire. I progressed from classroom teacher to Head of Department, then Deputy Head. For the last 14 years, I have worked at Birkdale Senior School in Sheffield, where I have been Deputy Head for both academic and pastoral areas, as well as Designated Safeguarding Lead.
What attracted you to the headship at Silcoates?
Silcoates’ vision of providing a holistic education, knowing each child individually, and supporting them to become the best version of themselves is one I share. I believe schools should be places where children are supported to grow in confidence, develop skills and interests, and gain awareness of themselves and the world around them in a safe, happy environment. Silcoates is clearly a school that embodies these aims.
Personally, attending an independent school had a huge impact on my life, and as a parent, I have seen the benefits for my own children. It is a great privilege to be able to lead Silcoates as its new Head and help pupils and their families enjoy the same experience.
What were your first impressions of the school?
During my visits to Silcoates, I was struck by its wonderfully friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I really enjoyed meeting pupils and staff and hearing about their experiences and passions. It’s clear that everyone takes real pride in being part of the Silcoates community – it matters to be a Silcoatian – and this is a very tangible and valuable attribute that I am keen to learn more about, encourage, and support.
What parts of school life are you most looking forward to?
Schools are all about people, so I’m most looking forward to meeting the pupils, staff, and parents who belong to the Silcoates community. Each section of the school offers different experiences, so whether it’s working with infants in the Forest Classroom or supporting sixth formers with university applications, I’m looking forward to getting to know every aspect of Silcoates and all it has to offer.
In my spare time, I enjoy running, playing the guitar, and walking in the mountains, so I’m also excited to support sport, music, and Duke of Edinburgh activities across the school.
