I OFTEN see Mr [Alex] Russell around the academy, but I wanted the opportunity to ask him some questions.

We met at reception and after checking his hair was perfect for the photo, we began the short question and answer session.

BF – What things in your life are most important to you?

AR- “Family and education, I’m passionate about both.”

BF – What inspired you to become a teacher?

AR- “I wanted to help young people gain opportunities and improve their education.”

BF – What were your first thoughts on Everest when you arrived?

AR- “What an amazing environment and building, the problem was that it had lost its sense of direction. During the last 18 months, the response from staff and students has been magnificent.  Small changes have led to great improvements and there is a growing confidence and momentum that will take the school to new heights.”

BF – What do you want for the future at Everest?

AR- “As a school to work more closely with our primary feeders, to constantly improve and become a beacon of Education in Basingstoke.”

By Bethany Fletcher