Our school is named after British philosopher Bertrand Russell. He inspires us in many ways, which are most importantly captured by the quote "a good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge". This reminds us all of the importance of learning and gaining knowledge in a range of subjects so that we can really know about the world around us and how to live our lives.
Varndean School is truly different – from the moment you step through the doors, the vibrancy and energy of the people in it can be felt. There is a hunger for learning from both students and adults, making it a fantastic place to work.
But it also places real emphasis on how we treat each other and tells us that we must be inspired by love and should therefore be kind. Russell students will learn to be good people as well as learning to think critically and creatively ready for the challenges of the 21st century.
Head of Russell School - Miss A Holder
Hello, my name is Miss Holderand I am the Head of Russell School.
I joined Varndean in September 2016 and my career has always been based around supporting children and young adults whilst at school.
My role at Varndean is to ensure that each student has a positive and rewarding experience during their time at Varndean School. I am here to not only support, guide and advise each and every student within Russell School, but also be a member of staff that parents can contact whenever they need to discuss an issue.
Deputy Head of Russell School - Mr J Waite
My name is James Waite and I am the Deputy Head of Russell school as of January 2022.
I am deeply passionate about the students I teach and the school that I have been a part of for the past 10 years! I live locally so I am very well connected to the city and to the students and families that form part of our local community. My specialist area is the study of foreign languages, having successfully completed my degree in French, German and Spanish back in 2004 and apart from working as a holiday entertainer and being a member of cabin crew for Virgin Atlantic, I have been teaching languages ever since!
Having open communication and strong links within our Russell community, including teaching staff, students and families is key for getting Russell to the number 1 spot.
Go team Blue!
School Leader - Ms R Christy
My name is Rachel Christy and I am a School Leader in Russell base. I have had a long career in hospitality management but in the last few years had a change of direction, working with young people in schools as a teaching assistant and pastoral lead here at Varndean.
It is my belief that all young people have the ability to reach their potential. Through our work in school bases we support students' wellbeing and help to make their time at Varndean a positive experience.
Please contact me on extension 277 or email me at rachelchristy@varndean.co.uk
School Leader - Ms L Smallwood
My name is Lucy Smallwood. I have lived and worked in Brighton all my life and I joined Varndean as a School Leader in September 2021. I believe it is important to make students feel connected to school and to inspire them to do things they never thought they could, with empathy, humility and positivity.
Follow us on Twitter:
Bertrand Russell died on this day in 1970 and left us his timelessly insightful Nobel Prize acceptance speech about the 4 desires motivating all human behavior https://t.co/nvKPO5lCaN https://t.co/JFrtOAZfi4
Reading for pleasure is one of the best ways to relax and just 6 minutes can be enough to reduce stress levels by more than two thirds, according to new research. Great wellbeing technique to support our Y11 @VarndeanSchool students as they are preparing for PPE2 https://t.co/RWQCMBOz6B
Well done everyone one, especially our Russell Students who enjoyed Hot Chocolate with The Head on Friday https://t.co/2i4KpJ17YL
Well done to all our wonderful @VarndeanSchool Russell Students who continue to have excellent attendance and are role models to others. Ready to learn focus for the next 4 weeks: Punctuality, equipment, achievement and attendance #ChallangeAndPride
Excellent team work by our superb @VarndeanSchool students and hundreds of pounds raised for our charity VSIP https://t.co/cS3og3DcLv
Happy New Year from the @VarndeanSchool Russell team, we wish you all the best for a very happy 2019! We look forward to welcoming students back tomorrow for the start of the new term.