Head - Stonyhurst College

Applications are invited for the position of Head at Stonyhurst College, succeeding John Browne after a decade of distinguished and dedicated leadership.

Stonyhurst College is a leading Catholic co-educational boarding and day school, educating approximately 700 pupils aged 3 to 18. Set within a magnificent Grade I listed building on a 1,000-acre estate in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, Stonyhurst offers a stunning rural environment steeped in history. With a heritage spanning over 400 years, the College combines its rich Jesuit tradition with a forward-thinking, modern approach to independent education. Guided by the motto Quant Je Puis ("As much as I can"), Stonyhurst inspires pupils to fulfil their potential and become purposeful leaders committed to making a positive impact in the world. With students from over 32 countries, the school community is enriched by cultural diversity and a global outlook.

Academic outcomes across both the IB and A Level pathways are strong, and an ambitious development plan is underway. This plan reinforces the College’s commitment to academic excellence, a vibrant boarding experience, global engagement, and the enduring values of its Catholic and Jesuit mission.

This role presents an exceptional opportunity for an inspiring and visionary leader to guide a thriving co-educational boarding school into its next chapter. The successful candidate will demonstrate a proven track record of values-driven leadership, the ability to enhance academic performance, and strong marketing and commercial acumen. They will embody the spiritual ethos of Stonyhurst and be a visible, approachable, and compassionate presence within the school and its wider community.

The successful candidate will be a practising Catholic in alignment with the Jesuit values and ethos of Stonyhurst.

Further information on Stonyhurst College can be found at https://www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/

A copy of the strategic plan can be accessed below, alongside the candidate brief.

Letters of application, CVs and application forms should be submitted by the closing date 9am on Monday 28 July, to Constance Moss at Odgers Berndtson.

Stonyhurst College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service and overseas police checks.