Mr Rhodes
24th January 2025
It would be wrong for me, this week, not to focus on the tragic news we received earlier in the week, of the unexpected and shocking passing of Mr Steve Rhodes (Headteacher of Winterhill School and Deputy CEO of Inspire Learning Trust).
It would be wrong, painful and remiss not to take this opportunity to pay my respects – any other message would seem distasteful. And I should recognise and take the time to remember our friends and colleagues at Winterhill School, and to let them know they are all in our thoughts and have our condolences and best wishes.
Mr. Rhodes started at Winterhill School and entered its community – and there is very much a community at and around Winterhill School, something which is strong and has been something of a source of strength over the past few days – as a Deputy Headteacher in 2007. That’s 18 years ago! – a lifetime, quite literally when we think about our children and young people. He was appointed Headteacher in 2016 and he immediately brought an air of calm, determination, focus and self-belief back to the school community. It’s fair to say that Winterhill School has blossomed under his leadership. Colleagues recognised Mr Rhodes’ determination and honesty, he was human and humane, someone with integrity and purpose, someone who always put the school, it’s community, be that the students, families, carers or staff, at the heart of every decision that was taken – we are in the people business, and he understood that. Mr Rhodes is the reason why Leaders in Learning Trust and Inspire Trust merged. He was clear he would only take Leaders in Learning into a relationship with others who had the same principled and strong educational vision and values, with children, young people, their parents and communities at the heart of all educational decisions. Mr Rhodes believed in a truly inclusive educational experience for all and didn’t differentiate between the young and the old, the pupils, students and adults; all be treated with great care and compassion.
People talk about headteachers leaving a footprint in the sand, to be washed away so soon by the tide. Mr Rhodes has left an indelible mark on the Winterhill community and the educational provision in Rotherham. There’ll be no washing away that legacy anytime soon! His unwavering dedication, compassion, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our community. Mr Rhodes was not only a remarkable Headteacher and leader, but also a mentor and friend to many. He is already being missed and, as the weeks and months pass, the hole his passing has left will not diminish. We go forward from this point with his wisdom, compassion, kindness, commitment and good humour in the forefront of our minds and will shape the decisions that we take for years to come.
And to all of our students, the community and the staff at Winterhill School we offer our best wishes and invite you to allow us to support you as you go through this extremely difficult time. We may not always be able to lessen the impact of the last few days on you and the school community but we will stand shoulder to shoulder with you and do whatever is necessary to ensure that you are all supported as you grieve. You have our condolences and best wishes.