Prestfelde School in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mr. Matty Thavenot as its new Headmaster, effective September 2025. With extensive experience in leading top preparatory schools, Mr. Thavenot is passionate about creating an inspiring and academically rigorous environment where children can thrive and experience a wide variety of opportunities.
Mr. Thavenot joins Prestfelde School, from his role as Deputy Head at Mount Kelly Prep in Devon, where he spent eight years driving academic, pastoral and boarding initiatives. He has also held senior positions at Summer Fields, Oxford and Cumnor House, Sussex. His approach blends strong academic foundations with a commitment to nurturing the whole child where they feel confident and curious to find their own skillset. His deep belief that a strong co-curricular offering enhances rigorous academics, underpins the development of well-rounded individuals.
Mr. Thavenot was educated at Summer Fields before heading to Eton College for Senior School. He focused on Science and Maths before reading Biology at University College London. Whilst at Cumnor House he gained Qualified Teacher Status. He remains deeply interested and curious about the origins of life especially early humans. He certainly left the school community wanting to know more following his interview, where he talked to the school assembly about tribal cultures and human origins.
Alongside him will be his wife, Carolynn, a teacher of English and Geography, and their two children, Lexi (Year 7) and Ollie (Year 5). The Thavenot Family are excited to join the Prestfelde community and to explore all that their new home of Shropshire has to offer, especially cricket, culture and the countryside.
Reflecting on his new role, Mr. Thavenot says: “Prestfelde offers the ideal mix of tradition and innovation, and I’m excited to work with the entire school community to continue fostering an environment where children are supported, inspired, and confident as they prepare for their future.”
Mr. Thavenot’s vision for Prestfelde is clear: to build on the school’s strong foundation, enhancing its curriculum offerings and nurturing environment, ensuring that every child excels academically and personally in their own way so they are perfectly prepared to make the most of senior school opportunities.
From September, Mr. Thavenot will be available to personally meet with prospective families interested in discovering more about Prestfelde and how we continue to uphold our 94-year legacy of exceptional education.
Categories: Prestfelde School School News
