MR MARK CRITCHARD ANNOUNCED AS NEW HEADTEACHER OF SLINDON COLLEGE

Slindon College Announces New Headteacher
Slindon College is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Mark Critchard as its new Headteacher, effective from 1 September 2026.
Following a rigorous and competitive recruitment process led by the Governing Body, Mr Critchard was unanimously appointed to the position. He brings substantial senior leadership experience across diverse educational contexts, having served as both Deputy Head and Vice Principal, as well as Director of Mathematics for a National academy chain. He comes with a strong focus on raising standards, improving outcomes and developing an ambitious, inclusive curricula. He has a proven track record of promoting high-quality teaching and learning, underpinned by a deep commitment to ensuring that every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential.
Throughout the selection process, Mr Critchard impressed the appointment panel by articulating his clear strategic vision for the future of the College, his collaborative leadership style, and his genuine enthusiasm and commitment to supporting both pupils and staff. His values and ambitions closely align with those of Slindon College and its wider community.
Stuart Lawrance, Chair of Governors, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Mr Critchard to Slindon College. He demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a compelling vision for the continued development of the College. We are confident that, under his leadership, Slindon College will continue to thrive and build on its successes and nurturing ethos.”
Mr Critchard succeeds Mrs Sotiria Vlahodimou, who steps down after ten years of dedicated service to the College. Under her outstanding leadership, the College has been the recipient of multiple sector awards and recently achieved a positive ISI inspection outcome.
To find out more about Slindon College visit www.slindoncollege.co.uk.
For further information please contact Slindon College’s Marketing Officer, Holly Stevens – marketing@slindoncollege.co.uk
About Slindon College:
Slindon College is an independent day and boarding school for boys aged 8 - 18, set in the historic Slindon House located in the South Downs National Park. The College provides a specialist learning environment enabling pupils with additional learning needs, to thrive in our nurturing provision.
Our pupils have had setbacks in mainstream settings and the College offers individualised pathways for their future success. We work with each pupil on a rounded social and educational development foundation, offering nationally recognised examinations and vocational qualifications.










