Farewell to Mr Hartley: celebrating nine years of leadership

At the end of the summer term, staff, pupils and parents bid a fond farewell to Headmaster, George Hartley, as he prepares to embark on an exciting new chapter in sunnier Spanish climes.   

Over the last nine years, Mr Hartley has led the school with warmth, dedication and his characteristic good humour, working hard to ensure that King’s is a place where exceptional academic achievement is matched by outstanding pastoral care and a wealth of opportunities beyond the classroom.  

On the occasion of Mr Hartley’s final Cathedral service, Chair of Governors, Dr Sandra Verity, paid tribute to his dedicated leadership and lasting contribution to the School.  

She said: “Working alongside George has been a genuine pleasure and, on behalf of governors, staff, pupils and parents, I would like to thank him for his unwavering service to King’s. 

“His compassionate and committed leadership was most obvious during the Covid pandemic, when he steered the school through an unprecedented period of uncertainty. His dedication to the pupils was never more obvious than during that time, ensuring that the children were always at the heart of every decision.” 

During his nine years as Head, The King’s School was named the 2024 Sunday Times Independent School of the Year for the North West, shortlisted in the Independent School of the Year Awards for its commitment to pupil wellbeing, and highly commended for its partnership work through Chester Schools Together. 

His final week at King’s was filled with cards, gifts and good wishes from the entire school community. Willow Lodge and Junior School children led special assemblies, and parents took time to express their gratitude. 

Mr Hartley thanked everyone for their good wishes and reflected on his nine years as Head of The King’s School Chester: 

“Merewyn and I have been incredibly touched by everyone’s kindness and generosity and will always remember, with great fondness, our delightful King’s send off. 

 “Looking back over the past nine years, what I will treasure most is seeing our pupils thrive – academically, creatively, on the sports field and, above all, as kind, confident young people.  

“I hope my legacy is a school where every child has felt known, valued and inspired to make the very most of every opportunity. It has been an immense privilege to lead King’s, and I leave with enormous pride in all that our community has achieved together.” 

Everyone at The King’s School Chester thanks George and Merewyn for their years of dedicated service and wishes them every success and happiness as they begin their new adventure in Madrid.