Founded in 1525, the Royal Grammar School Newcastle is the North East's leading independent school, with over 1,300 pupils aged 7–18 across its Junior School, Senior School and one of the largest Sixth Forms in the independent sector. Named Independent School of the Year by The Telegraph (2023) and Independent Senior School of the Year by TES (2025), RGS combines exceptional academic results with a transformational bursary programme and over 80 partnership projects reaching more than 10,000 children across the region each year. The School is now forming the RGS Newcastle Group, with Westfield School joining to bring Nursery and Pre-Prep provision into the family from Summer 2026.

The Board is seeking a new Chair of Governors to provide strategic leadership at this pivotal moment in the School's history. Working closely with the Executive Head, Geoffrey Stanford, and a strong, experienced Board, the Chair will help shape the direction of the Group as it develops, ensuring rigorous governance, sound financial oversight and a continued commitment to the School's charitable mission. This is an unremunerated role with a time commitment of approximately 5–6 days per term, plus regular contact with the Executive Head.

Candidates will bring board-level experience, a strategic mindset and a track record of leading through change. Financial literacy, strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children are essential. Prior Chair experience is desirable but not required.

RGS is committed to the safeguarding of children and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and those working in school to share this commitment. The school applies the Government’s Keeping Children Safe in Education Safer Recruitment procedures to all candidates including appropriate pre-interview checks on shortlisted candidates and pre-employment checks pending any offer. 

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Royal Grammar School Newcastle on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference TBYKA. Please email jo.ogilvy@saxbam.com for a confidential conversation. Applications should be received by noon on Thursday 9th April.