Ryan Howe

I began my journey at the University of St Mark and St John in September 2011 on the Applied Sport Science for Coaching degree. At 18, I had a rough idea that I might become a secondary school PE teacher, but I wasn’t yet certain. Everything shifted during my first year when I selected a module on coaching children—this ignited my passion for sports coaching and set the direction for the rest of my degree, and ultimately, my career.

Studying a sports-focused degree gave me far more than technical knowledge. The practical nature of the course helped me develop communication, teamwork and leadership skills that have shaped every step of my professional journey. Through group projects, coaching sessions, and ongoing reflection, I learned how to communicate with clarity, collaborate effectively, and adapt quickly in fast-moving environments. These transferable skills have stayed with me and have been instrumental in my progression through teaching and leadership.

One of the defining strengths of Marjon was the personal, community-focused feel of the university. The close-knit environment meant I built genuine connections with lecturers, who knew me as an individual and were always willing to support, guide, and challenge me. Their expertise, encouragement, and willingness to offer opportunities played a crucial role in refining my coaching practice and developing my confidence.

By the end of my first year, I was coaching football for Plymouth Argyle’s Centre of Excellence. This role enabled me to apply what I was learning while networking with experienced professionals. The reflective mindset embedded in both my coaching and my studies became the foundation of everything I have achieved since.

I continued coaching with Plymouth Argyle throughout my degree, and one of those coaching connections led to a life-changing opportunity in North Carolina. After graduating, I moved to the United States and became an Academy Director, overseeing the programme for 5–11-year-olds. It was in this role that something clicked—I realised that this age group brought me the most fulfilment, and that working with children was where I wanted to make my impact.

That realisation brought me back to Marjon to complete a PGCE in Primary Studies. Once again, I benefitted from opportunities to apply theory in real classrooms. My coaching background—especially the reflective practice instilled during my undergraduate years—proved invaluable. I secured a teaching role in my placement school and, in my first year, was trusted to lead PE. This early taste of educational leadership showed me the wider impact I could have on children and staff, and it sparked the ambition to one day lead a school of my own.

After four years, I stepped out of my comfort zone to take on a leadership role in a new area as Key Stage Lead and Maths Leader. The resilience and confidence built at Marjon helped me take that leap. Over the following four years, I strengthened my whole-school leadership skills and prepared myself for the next step: deputy headship.

I joined the Westcountry Schools Trust as Deputy Headteacher, and within my first four weeks, I stepped up as Interim Headteacher—a role that later became permanent. Today, as Headteacher, I have the privilege and responsibility of leading the learning and development of around 200 pupils. It is a role that brings immense fulfilment. The opportunity to shape the culture of a school, support staff to grow, and make a daily difference to our children and wider community is something I feel incredibly fortunate to do. 

Most recently, I have completed the National Professional Qualification in Headship, as I continue to develop my own practice as I know as a leader we can always improve. 

My grounding at Marjon built my confidence, resilience, and professional connections. It offered me opportunities that opened doors I didn’t even know existed at 18. Marjon will give you as many opportunities as you are willing to take—my journey is proof of how those opportunities can shape not only your career, but who you become.