Getting to know Mr Phelps, our Headteacher

Mr Phelps grew up in Pendine, Carmarthenshire spending his childhood playing in the woods and on the beach with his friends. He now lives in Pembrokeshire.

He went to Tremoilet Primary School in Pendine followed by Whitland Grammar School (now known as Ysgol Dyffryn Taf School).

Career

After leaving school, Mr Phelps first worked as an outdoor pursuits instructor. Eventually, he went to university, trained as a teacher and took up his first post in Bridgend, South Wales.

Later he was seconded to Glenboi Primary School near Aberdare, known as a ‘school in crisis’ and featured in the BBC ‘Week In, Week Out’ series. Mr Phelps was part of a trouble shooting team to help turn the school around. Following this he became Deputy head of the Model School, Carmarthen and eventually took his first headship at Stackpole VC School in the west of Pembrokeshire in 2006.

In 2008, he became head teacher of Tavernspite school, where his own children attended, and in 2014 was also appointed head teacher of Templeton school when the federation between the two schools was created. Alongside this he worked as an Estyn inspector and was a founding member of the Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools project.

Family

Mr Phelps’ wife Olga used to be a head teacher too. She loves running, cycling, sea swimming and surfing. They have two sons, Toby and Joe.

Since he was a very young child, Toby has always been interested in birds. Now he has grown up and works as an ornithological consultant. There is a message there – don’t give up on your dreams or passions.

Toby’s younger brother Joe is studying at Oxford University. He is a very keen surfer and guitar player.

When Mr Phelps is not being our head teacher

Mr Phelps has many hobbies and interests. He likes telling stories and facts (most of which are at least a bit interesting). He is very fit, trains hard and has completed four Ironman triathlons. He loves the outdoors, wildlife and caring for the environment.

Mr Phelps enjoys travelling in his campervan, mostly to Scotland or France or around Pembrokeshire. He is quite a good surfer (apparently!) and likes hiking in the mountains.

In school

Mr Phelps loves meeting the children and their families in school. He knows everyone and is interested in all of our lives. He tells lots of jokes (some of which are actually even a little but funny!).

During the day, you will always see Mr Phelps around school, helping the children and staff, and looking after the school.

Mr Phelps says that being our head teacher is the best job he has ever had. He is very proud to be head teacher of Tavernspite and Templeton Schools. 🙂