Meet our Headteacher

Mr Matt Hire

It is a genuine privilege to lead St Michael Abbey School a school with a rich-legacy, proud tradition and remarkable potential. I am absolutely delighted to be Headteacher of such a prestigious British Independent school and to work with a community that shares a deep belief in excellence, ambition and opportunity for every young person.

I bring to St Michael Abbey School a wealth of experience gained from leading high-performing schools in both the UK and internationally. Having worked across diverse educational settings, I have seen first-hand the transformative power of high expectations, exceptional pastoral care and a values-driven culture. My leadership is grounded in a deep belief in community, integrity, curiosity and ambition; values that shape not only academic success, but the character and confidence of young people. I am passionate about creating schools where students are known as individuals, challenged to think deeply, supported to take risks, and inspired to become thoughtful, principled and globally minded citizens.

Our school is a British independent Senior School and Sixth form with a strong sense of who we are and where we are going. Rooted in heritage yet outward-looking by nature, our purpose is simple and bold: to help every young person discover who they are, what they can become, and how they can make their mark on the world.

Learning here is deep, purposeful and energising. Our classrooms are places of curiosity and challenge, where students are encouraged to question, explore ideas and think for themselves. We care less about short-term memorisation and far more about understanding, confidence and the ability to apply learning in meaningful ways; skills that last well beyond school!

Our international boarding community will sit at the heart of school life and is one of our greatest strengths. Students from around the world join us and quickly become part of something special: a close-knit, supportive community that genuinely feels like a home from home. Boarding at St Michael Abbey blends the best of British independent education with outstanding pastoral care, clear routines and a strong sense of belonging. Every student is known, supported and encouraged to flourish.

Life at St Michael Abbey extends far beyond the classroom. Through a rich and varied co-curricular programme, students develop character, resilience and leadership, while building lifelong friendships with peers from different cultures and backgrounds.

Our values: community, integrity, curiosity and ambition are lived every day. We are proud of our British educational heritage, while preparing students to step confidently into an increasingly global future.

As Headteacher, my commitment is to build a school where students feel inspired, empowered and excited about what lies ahead; where effort is recognised, excellence is expected, and success is defined as much by personal growth as by academic achievement.

Taster Days

Join us to experience a day in the life at our vibrant school.

Explore engaging classes, participate in hands-on activities, and meet our dedicated teachers and students.

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Join the vibrant student community at St Michael Abbey School.