This week, Mrs Helen Hoffmann has begun her first term as Headteacher of Hereford Cathedral Junior School.
Mrs Hoffmann joins HCJS from Derwent Lodge, Somerhill in Kent where she was Headteacher, prior to which she worked as Head of Juniors and then Director of Studies at Vinehall School, Robertsbridge. Mrs Hoffmann graduated with a BA Hons, a PGCE (Distinction) and an MA in Literature and brings with her extensive school leadership experience from a career in both academic and pastoral roles in IAPS and HMC schools.
She has taken the helm at HCJS in the 124th year of the school’s long history, and is looking forward to leading the school in its next chapter.
Mrs Hoffmann said: “I am thrilled to be the new Headteacher at Hereford Cathedral Junior School. To lead a school of such tradition and heritage is a great privilege. But most of all, as I get to know the children here, I am struck by their insatiable enthusiasm for learning, life and fun. Children have told me all sorts of wonderful jokes and anecdotes. They’ve included me in lunchtime conversations, proudly shared their achievements in sport and lessons and wowed me with their singing already. The HCJS community, pupils, parents and staff, have made me feel welcome from day one. This is a very special school in a very special location.”
On taking up the headship, Mrs Hoffmann extended her thanks to Deputy Head, Mr James Debenham, who has ably led the school as Acting Head since Mr Chris Wright stepped down from his role in July 2021.
Headmaster, Dr Michael Gray commented: “We are all so delighted to have Mrs Hoffmann starting as Headteacher of Hereford Cathedral Junior School. She has really hit the ground running and we are already enjoying seeing her energy, vision and educational expertise underpin all the work with which she is engaged. We are all really excited about the future of the School.”
Alongside her teaching career, Mrs Hoffmann has an eclectic range of interests and qualifications. She has learnt both French and upholstery to diploma level and is a skilled demonstration dancer for the Royal Scottish Country Dance Association.
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New Headteacher Mrs Hoffmann is pictured below with the five pupils who also joined HCJS this term.
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![HH with new pupils](https://herefordcs.com/sites/default/files/styles/paragraph_large/public/paragraphs/IMG_2199.jpg?itok=z-wijAzF")
