AOS Alumna Tops the Charts as ‘Headteacher of the Year’
We were thrilled for alumna Virginia (Rodway) Beale (AOS 1988-94), who recently scooped the prestigious award for ‘Headteacher of the Year’ at the 2025 Worcestershire Education Awards ceremony.
The annual Education Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the excellence and commitment demonstrated across schools in our region. Nominees are put forward by staff, parents and friends of the schools, all of whom see firsthand the impact these individuals make in their school community. This year saw a record number of nominations, especially from local state primary and secondary schools (RGS Worcester does not enter these local Awards.)
Virginia described the Awards ceremony as being “an extraordinary experience, made even more special by the presence of many of my staff and fellow educators who share a commitment to excellence in education. The outpouring of congratulations through emails, texts, and messages has been overwhelming, and I am incredibly grateful for the recognition.”
When asked what it means to win the award, Virginia explained, “I am thrilled to have been honoured with the ‘Headteacher of the Year’ award, a recognition that has left me truly overwhelmed and deeply humbled. As an alumna of Alice Ottley, where I studied from 1988 to 1994, my educational journey has been filled with cherished memories and invaluable experiences. Currently, I serve as the proud headteacher of St Matthias Church of England Primary School in Malvern and have been part of that school family for 16 years.”
Virginia was keen to convey that it takes a team effort to run a school successfully, sharing that it “has been made possible by the unwavering dedication of an exceptional team of staff who passionately strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of all our pupils. This was shown recently from turning an inadequate school into a ‘Good’ Ofsted rated school in June, something I am incredibly proud of with my school community.”
When asked what motivates her, Virginia had no hesitation in responding, “My love for the job lies in the daily rewards of seeing the smiles on our children’s faces, fostering long-lasting relationships with their families, and contributing to their educational and emotional growth. I am privileged to be part of such a vibrant community and remain committed to nurturing an environment where every child can thrive.”
Congratulations Virginia from everyone at RGS for a thoroughly well-deserved win!
Mr Scott MacDonald, Foundation Director
