New Headmaster Appointed

The King’s School Chester has announced the appointment of its new Headmaster following the news that George Hartley will step down to spearhead the establishment of a new, prestigious international school.

After nine years of distinguished service, Mr Hartley will leave King’s next summer to become the founding Headmaster of Brighton College Madrid. This follows record-breaking results at King’s this year for both GCSE and A levels, with the former placing King’s as the top performing co-ed in the North West.

This week, Chair of Governor’s  Mrs Sandra Verity confirmed that Mr Luke Rogers MA (Hons. Cantab) MBA will assume the role in September 2026. Mr Rogers is currently Deputy Head Academic at Bedford School and brings substantial experience across both the state and independent sectors.

A music graduate from St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, Mr Rogers began his career in London state schools before taking on leadership roles at Wilson’s School, Sutton – named The Sunday Times Secondary School of the Year for Academic Performance in 2024 – and at Colfe’s School in London, where he served as Director of Studies and later Interim Head of the Junior School. He joined Bedford School in 2022.

Professionally, he offers particular breadth. He has served as a Strategic Education Advisor for The Harpur Trust, developing a trust-wide strategy aimed at reducing the attainment gap for disadvantaged primary pupils. He is also an experienced ISI Inspector.

Having grown up in Cardiff, he is eager to continue improving his Welsh and is a frequent visitor to Anglesey and North Wales, a place of many cherished family holidays. Already a keen admirer of Chester’s rich heritage and a confirmed fan of Chester Market, he will move to the city with his wife Amy, who works as a primary Deputy Head, and their two children, Ewan and Imogen.

He said: “I am thrilled and deeply privileged to lead a school with such a celebrated history. I am committed to honouring King’s rich heritage while championing innovation, strengthening partnerships across the city, and extending the school’s impact far beyond its gates.

“King’s stands on a strong foundation, and I’ll be honoured to work with staff, pupils, and parents to build on this momentum, shaping a bold and dynamic future where the school continues to inspire, challenge, and achieve excellence in every sphere.”

Reflecting on his time at King’s, Mr Hartley added: “Being the Headmaster of The King’s School has been an immense privilege. When my family and I arrived in 2017, we were met with such warmth and openness, qualities that have characterised my time leading this wonderful school and living in this vibrant city.

“This school is a truly special place because of the people at its heart and I know that my successor, Mr Rogers, will be afforded that same, generous King’s welcome from our entire community.”