My name is Matthew Slater, a 52-year-old father of four. I have worked in education for the past 27 years – 23 years in senior leadership, twelve as Headteacher.
Most recently as the Head of Links Academy in Hatfield Links is a small school that educates secondary aged children who have been permanently excluded from a mainstream school.
As a young man, growing up in Blackburn my passion was swimming. I competed nationally as a teenager, once swimming in the same race (but a long way behind) Olympian and world record holder Mark Foster.
In 2021 I successfully completed a channel relay crossing and now wish to continue my interest in all things swimming.
Swim Tayka aims to resonate with me for the practical support it is providing for the most vulnerable young people in society, and in attempting to keep them safe.
With a long experience in leading complex organisations, an interest in swimming and the desire to support the safety of young people I hope that I could be of service to the organisation.
In addition, I am a level 2 qualified designated safeguarding lead and am certified in safer recruitment.
