Meet the Head: Mr Barrett

You might spot Mr Barrett at school with his loyal four-legged friend, Barley, or zipping down the roads on his motorbike.

Today, however, we invite you to discover what has shaped Mr Barrett into the headmaster we know today. In our “Meet the Head” article, we explore his passions, inspirations, and the journey that has led him to this role.

What inspired you to become a headmaster?

My own school experience has definitely shaped my journey into education. The sense of community, the joy of learning, and the relationships with teachers who really made a difference were significant for me. I wanted to recreate that environment where children are genuinely seen, supported, and challenged to be the best versions of themselves. Becoming a head allowed me to not only lead but to foster that ethos on a much larger scale.

What attracted you to it?

It was the potential and the challenge that initially drew me in. Cricklade Manor Prep had such strong foundations, and I saw the opportunity to help it grow even further. The combination of exceptional facilities, a flexible and engaging curriculum, and a dedicated community made it clear that this school could be a place where children not only excel but truly enjoy their educational journey.

How long have you been at the school?

I’ve been at Cricklade Manor Prep for seven years now, and I have no intention of moving on anytime soon. Being part of the Wishford Schools Group has been a wonderful experience—there’s always room for growth and collaboration. What keeps me motivated is that sense of continuous development, not just within the school, but also for me personally as a leader. There’s always something new to achieve, and the support from the group is second to none.

What do you enjoy most about the role?

The opportunity to make a positive impact on children’s lives every single day. Seeing a child grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and thrive both academically and personally is incredibly fulfilling. The role allows me to be a part of those moments of discovery and growth, not just for the students, but also for our teaching staff as we all strive towards the same goal—giving every child the best possible start in life.

What are you most proud of about your school?

There are so many aspects to be proud of! But if I had to choose, it would be the warm and nurturing environment we’ve created. Every child is treated as a unique individual. We tailor our approach to each pupil’s strengths and needs, delivering a challenging yet engaging academic programme alongside a broad and creative curriculum, that nurtures curiosity, builds resilience and creates a love of learning. Our exceptional staff are experts in their fields and deeply committed to fostering self-confidence and a passion for discovery. The level of dedication our team shows is reflected in the happiness and confidence of our pupils. We’ve managed to build a place where children feel safe to be curious, to take risks, and to learn from both success and failure—a culture that will serve them well throughout their lives. It’s this combination of personalised attention and a dynamic learning environment that truly sets us apart.

Are you intrigued to explore Cricklade Manor Prep in person?

Join us for our next Open Day on Friday 11 October. It’s a great opportunity to experience the enthusiasm and charm of our Nursery and School firsthand. Book your visit today!