Anglesey-based Business Manager, Steve Griffiths, recently shared insights about his first year at the helm of St Gerard's School in Bangor.

He has reflected on a period of growth , renovation, and significant investment.

Mr Griffiths' more than 25 years in the commercial sector played a crucial role in steering forward the institution's progress over the past year.

Mr Griffiths shared the accomplishments he and the school's team, directed by Headteacher Campbell Harrison, have achieved.

These include a 10 per cent rise in pupils, the introduction of new sports facilities, an entire rebranding, and consolidating all students under one roof.

Mr Griffiths said: "This is far more than a job for me, and that’s not just because of the personal connection as my daughter is a pupil here."

 Steve Griffiths has reflected on the past year   (Image: St Gerard’s School)

Discussing the adjustments required in shifting from a private sector background to education, he spoke about incorporating a more commercial-oriented approach while retaining core values.

He said: "There have been challenges, and there could be others on the way, so we are becoming even more sustainable and efficient, by lowering our carbon footprint, creating revenue streams and future-proofing the school."

Mr Griffiths also highlighted the unique location of St Gerard's, referring to its "huge potential".

Projecting the future, Mr Griffiths noted plans for further upgrading sports facilities, set for autumn, following improvements to the campus, gardens, access routes, signage, and both internal and external décor.

He shared how he is "proud of everything we’ve introduced, and importantly how the parents have engaged and supported us on our journey."

As part of the school's refurbishments, the pupils' artwork is now on the school's corridors.

"I have enjoyed every second and am pleased we have managed to upgrade and modernise areas of St Gerard’s while retaining its traditions and being sympathetic to our surroundings," said Mr Griffiths.

He finished by saying: "We know our history but are focused on growth and sustainability, for the next generation and beyond."

For more information about the school you can visit www.st-gerards.org, or follow them on social media.

You can also email them on sgadmin@st-gerards.org, or call 01248 351656.