The Purcell School is delighted to announce the appointment of Stephen Yeo to succeed David Thomas as Headmaster. This follows an extensive search led by consultants who specialise in the educational field. The Governors have selected Mr Yeo from a strong field, and are confident that his wide experience in schools combined with his musicianship, equip him well to move The Purcell School forward, and build on the excellent work of David Thomas. Stephen will take up his appointment in January 2016 and Governors are delighted that current Deputy Head, James Harding has agreed to act as Interim Head for the autumn term.
Stephen Yeo, a Bristolian by birth, began his musical education as a cathedral chorister at Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, progressing to King’s College, Taunton. After graduating with a B.Mus degree from the University of Sheffield he spent five years in Dublin where he sang, played the organ, and taught at St Columba’s College and the music department of the Dublin Institute of Technology. He was then Director of Music at St Elphin’s School, Matlock, followed by eight years as Head of Music and Performing Arts at King Edward VI Handsworth School in Birmingham. Stephen then joined the leadership team at Bedales School, and subsequently became Head of Lyndhurst School in Camberley. For the last four years he has been Head of Exeter Cathedral School. In addition to his music degree Stephen holds a music education diploma from Trinity College, London and his National Professional Qualification for Headship (Secondary). He is also a Boarding and Team Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate and an Examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Stephen Yeo, a Bristolian by birth, began his musical education as a cathedral chorister at Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, progressing to King’s College, Taunton. After graduating with a B.Mus degree from the University of Sheffield he spent five years in Dublin where he sang, played the organ, and taught at St Columba’s College and the music department of the Dublin Institute of Technology. He was then Director of Music at St Elphin’s School, Matlock, followed by eight years as Head of Music and Performing Arts at King Edward VI Handsworth School in Birmingham. Stephen then joined the leadership team at Bedales School, and subsequently became Head of Lyndhurst School in Camberley. For the last four years he has been Head of Exeter Cathedral School. In addition to his music degree Stephen holds a music education diploma from Trinity College, London and his National Professional Qualification for Headship (Secondary). He is also a Boarding and Team Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate and an Examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Stephen is married to Catherine, a languages graduate, registered nurse and midwife, and they have four grown up sons. They both enjoy walking and cycling in Ireland and Wales where they have a home.
Stephen says of his appointment, “I am looking forward hugely to joining the community at the Purcell School. I have already been impressed by the friendly atmosphere of the School and feel privileged and excited to have been invited to lead such a prestigious institution, with its enviable national and international reputation. I am planning on visiting the School as soon as possible to meet pupils, staff, parents and governors and look forward to getting to know the Patrons, Benefactors and supporters of the School.”
