Matthew Burton is the Headteacher of Thornhill Community Academy in Wakefield and one of the UK’s most recognisable teachers. He first rose to national prominence in 2013 as an English teacher featured in Channel 4’s multi award-winning documentary series Educating Yorkshire.

Matthew took on the role of Headteacher at Thornhill Community Academy in 2018, leading the school through a period of change and development.

Educating Yorkshire returned to Channel 4 in 2025, bringing renewed attention to the school and its community as it navigates daily school life in a heartwarming and humorous way.

An accomplished author, Matthew has written two books focused on supporting young people. Go Big is a practical ‘survival guide’ designed to help children aged 10 and over navigate the transition from primary to secondary education, while Back on Track focuses on motivation and guiding pupils towards success in school.

A father of three, Matthew and his wife Laura are also ambassadors for the Miscarriage Association, following the heartbreaking loss of their first child in 2012.