Set within 100 acres of stunning Hampshire countryside, Wellesley Prep School is a thriving, values-driven independent day school of around 280 pupils aged 2 to 13. Part of the Wellington Estate and governed by a small, committed board, the school has earned a reputation for a freshness of approach to education, exceptional pastoral care and outstanding relationships within its school community. Truly independent, Wellesley sends pupils to some of the country's finest senior schools - including Eton, Winchester, Radley, Wellington, Marlborough and St Swithun's - while remaining entirely focused on the best interests of each child. Weekends are free, family life is honoured, and the school's rural setting is not merely a backdrop but an active ingredient in an adventurous, exploratory education.

The new Head will be an inspiring and visible leader, serving as guardian of the school's distinctive character and values while providing a compelling vision for the next chapter of Wellesley's development. Responsibilities span strategic and academic leadership, staff development, pastoral oversight, community engagement and financial stewardship. The Head will work closely with a supportive board and benefit from the resources of the Wellington Estate management team, giving them the freedom to focus above all on educational outcomes. This is a role with genuine independence and real opportunity to shape a school that is confident in what it stands for and open to what lies ahead.

The successful candidate will bring proven senior leadership experience in the independent sector, ideally within a prep school context, alongside a deep understanding of how children develop between the ages of 2 and 13. They will hold a strong set of values, be pastorally astute and an excellent communicator, capable of inspiring staff, engaging families and commanding the respect of pupils and senior school colleagues alike.

An appreciation of proprietorial ownership and its particular dynamics will be important, as will a genuine and evident enthusiasm for the kind of education Wellesley offers - one that is academically ambitious, grounded and, as the school itself puts it, beautifully imperfect.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Wellesley Prep School on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference TBZAA. Alternatively email alice.brent-smith@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Friday 29^th May 2026.