Principal of Lightwoods Primary Academy
Rob Matthews is the Principal of Lightwoods Primary Academy, where he started in January 2021. With over 20 years of experience in education, Rob has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer his school community.
Rob’s career in education started after completing a Law and Economics degree, when he followed in the footsteps of his parents and became a teacher. He completed his PGCE in 3-11 teaching at Goldsmith’s College, University of London, and has since obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Effective Learning from the Institute for Education and an MBA with distinction from Warwick University.
As Principal, Rob has taken on additional responsibilities as Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring that the school is a safe and secure environment for all pupils. He has also previously held the position of Headteacher in two other schools, where he achieved great success. At Ravensdale, where he was for six years, the school secured two good Ofsted ratings, and Hearsall moved from requires improvement when he joined to good one month after he left.
Rob is passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive school environment for students, staff, and families. The school’s core value of “warmth” is a testament to his belief in creating a welcoming and caring atmosphere for all. He believes in putting the needs of the children at the centre of everything the school does.
Outside of work, Rob enjoys playing several sports, including hockey and squash. He regularly coaches hockey with his daughter and likes to tinker with computers.
