Announcement: Appointment of New Headteacher – Mr Tom Harrup
The Governing Body of Birkett House School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Tom Harrup as the new Headteacher, commencing officially at the start of the 2026–27 academic year. Tom will begin a handover period with the current Headteacher, Mr Chris White, from May 2026 to ensure a smooth transition of leadership across all five Birkett House sites in Leicestershire. 

Tom joins Birkett House with an impressive record of leadership and school improvement across a range of educational settings, including mainstream primary, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) provisions. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to improving outcomes and life chances for children and young people with additional needs, and by association their families.

In his most recent role at Quorn Hall School, Tom has made a significant impact on raising standards, improving attendance, strengthening safeguarding practices, and fostering a culture of professional growth and compassion. His previous experience includes Headteacher at Easthorpe School, where he successfully opened and established a new specialist provision, graded Outstanding by Ofsted, and senior leadership roles at Bladon House School and Dovelands Primary School.

Tom brings with him a strong sense of purpose, integrity, enthusiasm and vision. He is deeply passionate about inclusive education and building positive, trusting relationships between pupils, staff, families, carers and the wider community. His leadership philosophy is rooted in kindness, high expectations and collaboration - qualities that align closely with the values of Birkett House School.

Tom has expressed his excitement about joining the Birkett House community, saying:
“It is an absolute privilege to be appointed as the next Headteacher of Birkett House School. The school has an exceptional reputation for supporting young people with SEND across Leicestershire, and I look forward to working with staff, pupils, families and governors to continue building on this success. Together we will ensure that every learner is valued, challenged and given the best possible opportunities to flourish.”

The Governing Body would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Chris White for his dedication and outstanding service to Birkett House. Under his leadership, the school has continued to grow and maintain its commitment to exceptional SEND education across its five sites. They would also like to thank all of the parents/carers, staff and pupils in their contribution and participation throughout the recruitment process.

We warmly welcome Mr Tom Harrup to his new role and look forward to the next exciting chapter in the journey of Birkett House School as we continue to deliver to the highest of standards in education and care, for all our pupils across Leicestershire.

12/02/2026