Private School News

NEW HEADMASTER FOR KINGS SCHOOL BRUTON

Mr Ian Wilmshurst has been appointed as Headmaster of King’s School, Bruton, from September 2009

Ian Wilmshurst (42), who is currently Deputy Head at The Royal Hospital School in Suffolk, said he was attracted to King’s on account of its reputation, size and location.

“I was delighted to accept the position of Headmaster of King’s Bruton”.

“King’s is well known for its very strong pastoral care; it has a strong family feel and is part of the community. I have already been impressed by the down to earth attitude of the pupils and the commitment of its staff.”

Educated at The Edinburgh Academy (1971-1984), where he was head boy, Ian Wilmshurst obtained a Geography MA and PGCE at Pembroke College, Cambridge (1985–1990).

His first teaching position was as geography master, house tutor and games coach at Highgate School, London (1990-1992) before moving to Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh (1992-2005) where he taught geography, was a housemaster and the 1st XV rugby coach. He will have spent 4 years as Deputy Head at The Royal Hospital School when he and his family move to Bruton later this year.

Ian is married to Helen and they have two daughters; Anna aged seven and Natalie aged five. He enjoys sports, hill walking and spending time with his family.

He will be taking over in the autumn from Nigel Lashbrook, who has been appointed Headmaster of Oakham School, Rutland.

Founded in 1519, King’s School has been fully co-educational for more than 10 years. Of its 330 pupils, 70% are boarders, while its associated prep/pre-prep school, Hazlegrove, at Sparkford – also co-educational – has a roll of 350 and a strong boarding element.

As Chairman of Governors at King’s, Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire said, “The Board of Governors is delighted that Ian Wilmshurst has accepted the appointment and we look forward to welcoming him and his family in September, to lead King’s into the next chapter of its development.”