Husband and wife duo join St Swithun’s sports department

St Swithun’s School is excited to welcome the husband-and-wife duo, Jon and Asha Riley, who are joining the school as director of sport and physical education teacher respectively.

Jon Riley, who previously served as assistant director of sport at Berkhamsted School, has a wealth of experience in sports education. He was responsible for the provision of sports and exercise programmes and promotion of sporting involvement and excellence for all pupils from Year 3-13. Additionally, he oversaw coach development within the PE department and the recruitment and development of staff.

Asha Riley previously served as head of lacrosse and part-time teacher of PE at Berkhamsted School. Asha is an experienced coach who led the 1st X lacrosse team to U18 National Champions Runners-up in 2022 and semi-finalists in 2021. Additionally, Asha was responsible for the reform of the PE curriculum, including a programme to maximize motivation for active wellbeing for all pupils.

Both Jon and Asha have a wealth of experience and expertise that they will bring to their new roles at St Swithun’s. Their combined passion and commitment to sports education will undoubtedly be an asset to the school.

Headmistress of St Swithun’s school, Jane Gandee, stated: "We are thrilled to welcome Jon and Asha Riley to our community. I have no doubt that their expertise and leadership will have a positive impact on the school and all of our students."

Jon Riley said: “Joining a community that puts so much emphasis on sport and exercise is something I am eagerly anticipating. I hope that I can help further enhance the pupils' relationships with sport and exercise, whilst also helping to develop their performance irrespective of their previous experiences.”

Asha Riley added: “I couldn’t be more excited to start my new role at St Swithun’s and a new life in Winchester for our family. We’re very grateful to have received such a warm welcome already and are looking forward to becoming part of the school community and getting stuck into all of the sporting action!”