The 3-18 Education Trust is pleased to announce the immediate appointment of Ruth Shaw as the new Headteacher of William Brookes School in Much Wenlock.


Ruth is an experienced senior leader and educator with over 20 years of experience working in schools in Shropshire. Ruth has previously worked as Assistant Headteacher at The Priory School in Shrewsbury.
Most recently, Ruth served as Acting Headteacher at William Brookes School, during which time she has shown exceptional leadership, dedication and a genuine commitment to the school’s values and mission.
Ruth grew up in Shropshire and attended William Brookes School herself from 1993 – 1998. As a student, Ruth says she always dreamed of being headteacher at the school.

Ruth commented: “I am delighted to have been appointed. William Brookes is a very special school with huge potential. Anyone that knows me knows that I love working in schools and, in particular, being with young people. Their wellbeing is at the heart of every decision I make. I am full of energy, positivity and enthusiasm and bring this to school with me every day. As a former William Brookes student myself, I have a unique understanding of the community that the school serves and the students that attend. I have lived within this community for 42 years and am intent on making William Brookes the best school that local children can go to.”
David O’Toole, CEO at The 3-18 Education Trust, said: “As we look forward to an exciting new chapter under Ruth’s leadership, I am confident that her vision and expertise will guide us towards even greater achievements. Ruth will be at the helm of an incredible staff team. Together, we will continue to build on our strengths, embrace new opportunities, and navigate the challenges that lie ahead.”
About William Brookes School
William Brookes is an exciting and vibrant secondary school nestled in the heart of the idyllic Shropshire countryside. The school serves a range of communities from the immediate market town of Much Wenlock and surrounding rural areas, to the large town of Telford.
William Brookes School has a uniquely rich heritage and is the only Coubertin School in the United Kingdom. Much Wenlock itself played host to the Shropshire Olympic Games from 1861, led by founder William Penny Brookes, which inspired Pierre Du Coubertin to revive the ancient Olympic games. The school values are focused on the Olympic values of respect, excellence, and friendship.
Find out more about William Brookes School.
Notes for editors
The 3-18 Education Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) of primary and secondary schools across Shropshire, with a community of over 5,000 students.
For press enquiries, contact media@318education.co.uk.