Q&A with Byron King, Head of Surbiton High Boys’ Prep From September 2025

From September 2025, we are delighted to welcome back Mr Byron King as Head of Surbiton High Boys’ Preparatory School. Having first joined the Surbiton High School community as a Year 5 Form Teacher at the Girls’ Prep, Mr.King later became Deputy Head at the Boys’ Prep before taking on a new role in an education technology company over the past year. We are thrilled to have him rejoin us and look forward to the continued growth and success of the Boys’ Prep under his leadership. In this Q&A, Mr King shares his journey in education, his thoughts on the Boys’ Prep, and what he is most excited about as he steps into this vital role. 

Can you tell us a little about your background in education? 

I started working at my alma mater, St David’s in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2011 before moving to the United Kingdom in 2017. I spent two years as a Year 5 Form Teacher at the Girls’ Prep before taking on the role of Deputy Head at the Boys’ Prep. Over the past year, I have been working in an education technology company, which has added a new dimension to my experience as both a teacher and a leader. 

What do you like about working in education? 

I was incredibly fortunate to have teachers who believed in me as I went through school. The thing I love most about teaching is the genuine impact we can make in our pupils’ lives. Whether it is supporting them through a challenge, seeing them grasp a tricky concept, or celebrating their success in senior school entrance exams—those are the moments I have always relished. I have certainly missed them over the past year. 

What are some of your formative moments in your teaching career?  

There are two moments that really stand out in my journey. The first was when my school headmaster told me he thought I would make an excellent teacher. That moment sparked everything, and I still look back on it with great fondness. The second was navigating the challenges of Covid, having only just started as Deputy Head. We had to take the School online in a matter of days. It was an intense time, but I am really proud of what we achieved at the Boys’ Prep. 

What do you think makes the Boys’ Prep outstanding? 

One of the things that makes the Boys’ Prep truly outstanding is the relationship between staff and pupils. The staff know each boy well, which means they can offer the highest level of support. The boys have a genuine love of learning, and I am always struck by the energy and focus they bring to their lessons. They are taught by teachers who are deeply invested in their progress and success. These teachers will help each boy discover his own unique pathway, but they will not hand it to him on a silver platter. At the Boys’ Prep, staff understand that boys need to be challenged, because it is through challenge that they grow, gain confidence, and achieve their best. 

What values are most important to you? 

Respect, resilience, and lifelong learning are the values I hold most strongly. Respect is at the heart of everything—we must respect others, respect ourselves, and respect the process of learning. Resilience is equally important, especially in a school setting where challenges are part of growth. I also deeply believe in lifelong learning. We should never stay still, and I try to model that mindset by remaining curious, open, and always willing to learn. 

What are your plans for the first six months?  

I am excited to continue the excellent work that Mrs Chong and her leadership team have put in place. I am looking forward to working closely with her this autumn and reconnecting with the boys, staff, and parents. There is also a group of Year 6s preparing for their 11+, and I want to make sure they—and their parents—feel fully supported every step of the way.