Alongside his Senior Leadership colleagues, Darren has played a key role in development and innovation plans at the School, including the successful move of junior girls to their new home on Town Walls, and has ambitious plans for the future of Shrewsbury High as a leader in girls’ education. Most recently, alongside outgoing head Jo Sharrock he led the school through an ISI Inspection which saw Shrewsbury High recognised as Excellent in all areas – the highest rating obtainable.
During his time at Shrewsbury High School, he has introduced the highly successful and award nominated Period X life skills programme into the curriculum and overseen improvements to all aspects of teaching, learning and examination results. As a keen footballer he also runs the school football clubs and is also a parent at the school, with his daughter having joined year 7 last year.
Outgoing Head Jo Sharrock, who will be moving to sister GDST school Putney High School, is thrilled that she will be handing over the baton to her SHS colleague, “Having worked closely alongside Mr Payne for the past five years, I cannot think of a better person to entrust with our SHS family. I have every confidence that Mr Payne will be a superb Head and the school will continue to flourish under his leadership. Mr Payne is a true champion of girls’ education and alongside the marvellous Junior Head Mrs Millichamp and the wonderful staff of Shrewsbury High the school will continue to deliver excellence for pupils and their parents”.