About the Headmaster
Stephen Morris became Headmaster of the Cathedral School at Easter 2008. Stephen was himself educated at a Cathedral school (Hereford), from which he progressed to Hull University to read Theology. At the end of his degree he decided to enter teaching and undertook a PGCE course in Religious Education and History, with a placement at Pocklington, an independent co-educational school near York.
His first post in teaching was in the state sector, as Head of RE at Beverley Grammar, a boys' comprehensive school just outside Hull. He built up the subject, establishing GCSE and A level courses, and continued his own professional development through studying part-time for a Master of Education degree at Hull University and taking a sabbatical term at Oxford University as a ‘Famington Fellow' to study the teaching of the most able at GCSE level.
After 5 ½ years at Beverley Grammar School, Stephen moved to a new post in the independent sector, as Head of RE at Bedford School, a boys' day and boarding school known for high academic standards along with excellent music and sport. Stephen was a boarding master, an assistant sports coach, a CCF instructor, led many school trips at home and abroad, and co-ordinated the sixth form enhancement programme. He taught both RE and History, and gained experience as both a GCSE and A level examiner.
He progressed from Bedford to one of the largest independent schools in the UK, Brentwood School in Essex, where he was Head of Sixth Form, responsible for the leadership and management of 330 sixth formers (boys and girls), a team of 29 tutors and the sixth form management team which dealt with students' pastoral care, academic development and career preparation.
From Brentwood he moved to Reading Blue Coat School in Berkshire, as Deputy Head (Second Master), responsible for the day-to-day running of the school. This was a school which had exactly the vision of education Stephen feels strongly committed to: high academic standards, but equal importance attached to sport, music, the arts, outdoor pursuits, and all other aspects of pupils' personal, social and moral development. This 'holistic' educational philosophy attracted him to apply for the Headship of the Cathedral School. In 2008 Stephen was commissioned as Headmaster by the Senior Provost of the Woodard Corporation, having been appointed by the Council of the Cathedral School some months earlier.
He is married to Rebecca, a staff nurse, and they have three young sons. He enjoys football (supporting Chelsea FC) and rugby, walking and reading current affairs.