St Albans School has appointed a new headmaster following the retirement of Jonathan Gillespie, after 18 years of school leadership.
Joe Silvester will take on the headship at the independent senior school at the start of the new academic year in September 2024.
Currently headmaster at Wetherby Senior School, an academic boys’ school in central London, and prior to that, deputy head (Academic) at Bancroft’s School in Woodford Green, Mr Silvester brings a wealth of experience to the table and is looking forward to moving to St Albans with his wife and their two young children next summer.
“I am honoured and absolutely delighted to have been appointed as the next headmaster of St Albans School," he said.
"I have been fortunate to meet a wide range of staff and governors through the appointment process and I have been struck by their warmth and dedication to the school and its community.
"I am looking forward to working closely with Mr Gillespie and other key members of the school over the next two terms to ensure that I am fully prepared for the start of the next academic year."
Having undergone a rigorous selection process, Mr Silvester stood out as the worthiest candidate, Neil Osborn, chair of governors at St Albans School, explained.
“Joe made a very positive impression on everyone involved in the selection process," he said.
"His passion and enthusiasm for teaching, along with his strong academic record, strategic vision and proven leadership skills, will help steer St Albans School through the next stage of its development.”
Current headmaster at St Albans School, Mr Jonathan Gillespie, added, “I congratulate Mr Silvester most warmly on his appointment as the next headmaster of this great school and I hope that he will derive as much professional fulfilment and enjoyment from the role as I have done over the last decade.
"I look forward to liaising with him on a regular basis over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities at the start of the next academic year.”
With just over 900 pupils, St Albans School prides itself on its "ability to deliver an exceptional holistic education, while identifying and nurturing each individual pupil’s potential".
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