Peter McGhee, the principal of St John Rigby College in Orrell for the past 15 years, is stepping down at age 60. His retirement marks the end of a 38-year career in education that began with teaching mathematics and culminated in leading one of the most respected sixth form colleges in the UK.
When Mr. McGhee joined St John Rigby College in 2010, it had been rated as “requiring improvement.” Over time, he worked to transform its performance, eventually earning an “outstanding” rating from Ofsted in 2017—a status that was maintained during subsequent inspections. This achievement, along with his broader contributions to further education, earned him a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2023.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. McGhee acknowledged that not all periods were easy. The shift back to linear A-levels from modular exams presented a challenge, but the pandemic proved to be the most difficult period of his career. For the first time in decades, he considered leaving his role entirely.
Despite these hardships, Mr. McGhee leaves the college on a high note. He has overseen a significant cultural and academic transformation, raising student aspirations and expanding opportunities through partnerships with employers, national competitions, and enriching educational experiences. Notably, student Jess Mason’s victory in the Poetry by Heart competition became a source of pride and inspiration for the entire community.
His leadership extended beyond the college. As one of ten national leaders in further education for the Further Education Commissioner, Mr. McGhee supported struggling sixth forms across the country. His insights and experience made him a valuable resource for institutions looking to improve their outcomes.
Now, Mr. McGhee looks forward to a well-earned retirement with his wife, Judi, who is also retiring after a long career as a manager at the Information Commissioner’s Office. Together, they plan to travel, enjoy live music, and explore new hobbies—like learning to play the guitar, a gift from his children for his 60th birthday. They also hope to take term-time holidays for the first time, including trips to Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans.
Closer to home, Mr. McGhee plans to spend more time playing paddle tennis, a sport gaining popularity in the UK. He will also attend A-level results day on August 14, returning briefly to see students receive the fruits of their labor.
Mr. McGhee’s career in education began almost by chance. After studying mathematics at Sheffield University, where he met his future wife, he decided to try teaching. He started at Hathershaw College in Oldham before moving to Loreto Roman Catholic College in Hulme, where he developed a passion for sixth-form education.
Over the years, he played a key role in establishing new post-16 centers, served in leadership roles at several institutions, and eventually became principal at St John Rigby College. There, he focused on building consistency, improving academic standards, and fostering a sense of community among students, staff, and parents.
Looking ahead, Mr. McGhee remains open to future opportunities in education but is content to focus on rest and rejuvenation for now. He expressed confidence in the college’s future under the leadership of current vice-principal Paula Nolan, whose internal promotion ensures continuity and stability.
As he closes this chapter, Peter McGhee leaves behind a legacy of dedication, innovation, and transformative leadership—an example of how committed educators can shape not only institutions but the lives of countless students.
