Graduations 2025: Simon Wareham | The University of Sunderland

Published on 10, July, 2025

Man standing in robes and hat, holding a scroll — Simon Wareham, Assistant Headteacher, Student Progression at Southmoor Academy

Simon Wareham, Assistant Headteacher, Student Progression at Southmoor Academy, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the University of Sunderland for his services to education.

Simon was born in South Shields in 1982, an only child to his mum Christine and dad David, who both worked in insurance.

When Simon was 18-months-old, his dad was relocated to a new office in Leeds, taking the family with him. Simon moved back to the North East in 1992 and attended Emmanuel College in Gateshead where he sat his GCSEs and A-levels.

In 2000, Simon began his French Studies degree at Newcastle University and graduated in 2004 after spending a year in France.

Simon’s ambition to teach took him to Durham University where he completed his PGCE teaching qualification.

In 2005, he moved back to Yorkshire and landed his first official teaching position at Huntington School in York.

Simon started out as a teacher of languages, teaching French and German, before moving into pastoral leadership – nurturing the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of pupils, alongside their academic success.

Simon was then made Head of House during which time he looked after multiple year groups with 300 pupils under his care.

Three people standing — Simon Wareham with University of Sunderland Chancellor Leanne Cahill and Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Sir David Bell

Simon returned to the north-east in 2016 and took up the role of Head of French at Southmoor Academy in Sunderland.

Simon first led the school’s personal development programme and later became careers leader, responsible for delivering the school's careers programme.

Simon was then asked to lead personal development and careers across the two schools within the Aspire North East Multi Academy Trust – Southmoor Academy and Sandhill View Academy.

In 2022, a year after qualifying with the National Professional Qualification for senior leaders in schools, Simon was made Assistant Headteacher, Student Progression at Southmoor Academy where he continues to nurture and support the next generation of Sunderland citizens.

Simon received his honour at the Stadium of Light today (Thursday 10 July) during the University's Summer Graduation Ceremonies.