Mr Harmer Says Goodbye to St Mary’s After 21 Years

St Mary’s Headteacher, Rob Harmer is stepping down after 21 years at the school and this week the school hosted a leaving do and invited former parents, students and staff to say goodbye. Despite the rainy weather, hundreds turned out to mark this occasion.

Mr Harmer started at the school as a Maths teacher and was promoted to Headteacher 15 years ago.

Former Pupil, Ella Shrager said, “He’s a kind and caring person. He always mad school fun. He was always there at the gate in the morning. One of my memories is that he always came dressed as Mr Bump on World Book Day by just putting a bit of toilet paper around his head!”

Former Parent, Marie McArthur whose daughter McKenzie went to St Mary’s said, “He was a very kind man; all the kids loved him. He might have been a bit scared of me. He always called me Mrs McArthur. The only time he’s ever called me by my first name was tonight. He was very influential on the kids because he was such a kind man. It was all females here and all the kids loved him.”

Deputy Headteacher, Kate Bodle made a speech. She said, “I was Rob’s first staff appointment when he took over his head and I always thought that you would see me out rather than the other way around. I have so many memories that I could share but I think the best one was holding a parent meeting with both of us dressed up as book characters on World Book Day has to be a highlight. Rob was in a large orange wig and I was dressed as Mary Poppins and I’m not sure how any of us kept a straight face. Personally I would like to thank Rob for being a wonderful caring boss who helped his staff to grow and challenged themselves while caring and supporting them when we need it. I feel very lucky to have a manager who’s also become a good friend.”

Rob afterwards said, “I’m absolutely blown away with the amount of people that have come here tonight for me. So today marks a sad but happy moment as I stand before you reflecting on my journey as headteacher and teacher at this remarkable school. In January 2004, pre-Facebook with Dido at the top of the album charts. I walked through these doors with a heart full of hope, a mind brimming with ideas and a passion for education. Little did I know that this school would become my second home. And all of you, my extended family. Some of the children still think I sleep above the nursery.”

“As I look back, I’m reminded of countless memories, the laughter echoing through the classrooms, the late night meetings fuelled by determination and the joy of witnessing our pupil’s growth, as well as gaining places at their chosen schools. We’ve weathered storms together the challenges, the triumphs and the everyday miracles that happen within these walls. I can think of no greater challenge than the Covid pandemic, and I am incredibly proud of the way in which we navigated our way through this difficult period and the positives which came from it.”

“To our students, you are the reason we exist. Your curiosity, your laughter and your determination have fuelled my passion. You’ve taught me that education isn’t just about grades. It’s about character, empathy, and resilience. Keep reaching for the stars. You are destined for greatness.”

“As I step down from my role, I carry with me a heart full of gratitude. Gratitude for the friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the indelible mark each of you have left on my life. I may be leaving this position, but I’m not leaving. Our shared mission to empower young minds, ignite curiosity, and foster a love of learning for life. Imparting. Let us remember that a school is not just bricks and mortar. It is the collective spirit of everyone who has walked through the doors. So as I bid farewell, I leave you with this. Continue to dream big. Embrace change and cherish the magic that happens when hearts and minds come together. Thank you for an amazing 21 years.”

Mr Harmer’s successor is Stephen Blundell, Deputy Head at Wetherby Preparatory School in London who will take over from September.