Sennockian 2018-2019 | Page 10

K at y R icks: VALETE I remember very clearly the Saturday morning 18 years ago when, as Chair of Governors, I announced to the Common Room the appointment of Katy Ricks as Head. There was a collective gasp of surprise (which seems inconceivable today) that a woman had been appointed – and then another gasp, as it was realised that, although very qualified for the role, Katy had no acting experience of headship. This proved no impediment whatsoever. From the first days of her arrival at Sevenoaks, Katy took to her new role with energy and sensitivity. She took her time, but not too much time, in getting to know the school. Although Sevenoaks had prospered over the previous decade, there was by 2002 a sense that its recent spate of initiatives needed consolidation. Katy immediately focused on the few areas that had begun to cause concern, and fixed them. For example, she introduced the fortnightly timetable that took unnecessary pressure off pupils and staff; and she managed sure-footedly the full implementation of the International Baccalaureate programme – a decision that had been taken before her appointment, and 4 against some opposition from staff and parents. It was obvious, by the end of her first year, that Katy was an exceptional leader. At the same time, however, she was developing a strategic vision for Sevenoaks, in consultation with the school community. By the end of her second year, the Governing Body agreed the first development plan that the school had produced in decades; and the first of its major capital projects was under construction. Almost two decades, and several iterations later, this development plan still guides the school’s direction. It is this combination of a broad strategic vision with an attention to detail (whether it’s the colour of the chairs in a meeting room, or which shoes to wear on Founder’s Day) that is one of Katy’s great strengths, along with her instinct for choosing the right staff and then encouraging them to work towards a clear, and agreed, objective. Her management – and personal – style is modern, and that has been very refreshing in a school as old as Sevenoaks. It is also characterised by a very personal touch, and a genuine concern for SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2018-2019