Reddam House Waterfall has announced the appointment of Shelly Matthews as their new Head of College. With an illustrious career in education and a wealth of experience, it is expected that Matthews will lead Reddam House Waterfall to new heights of academic excellence and innovation, the College told Education Today.

Originally from Johannesburg, Matthews served as Deputy Headmistress: Academics at St Peter’s College since 2011. She holds a HDip Ed and a BEd Hons.

Throughout her 30 years of experience in the field of education, Matthews has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a remarkable ability to set strategic vision and academic standards. Her tenure at St Peter’s College has been marked by numerous achievements, including spearheading a rise in university entrance rates from 85% to an impressive 97%. Her commitment to academic excellence and passion for innovative teaching methodologies, such as Project-Based Learning, have set her apart as a leader in her field.

Matthews has continuously sought to enhance her skills through professional development, undertaking various courses with renowned institutions. These include Values-Based Leadership at UCT Graduate School of Business, a Project-Based Learning Conference at PBL World San Francisco, Thinking Styles Profile with the Neethling Brain Institute, and the Leadership Development Programme at Wits Business School, among others.

Matthews says it is her goal to promote and contribute to the successfully established culture of excellence at Reddam House Waterfall.

“I am committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, where staff and students feel supported and motivated to achieve their goals and aspirations. I aim to encourage parental involvement through collaboration and open communication, and to celebrate diversity and achievements within the school community,” she says.