Now here in my third guise at Pilgrims', I originally left as a boy with a love of pretty much everything... I have continued sport, music and drama in different ways over the years. Through much of my early teaching career I managed to keep involved with semi-professional singing and have had a habit of spending past school holidays leading music theatre camps, workshops and productions for children, or gathering old friends together to put on carol concerts. 

Bethan and I have three children of our own and much of our free time is spent together as a family, continuously nourishing our (my?!) love of the Great Outdoors. From the wonder of Northumberland's coast and castles, to the ruggedness of western Wales and Snowdonia, from beaches to mountains and lakes, we aim to get out when we can, enjoying the simple things in life and walks.  As my children would have it, I can't resist going up 'big hills' to look at 'old stones'. I can't help wondering if that isn't just a little disdainful. 

I have been at Pilgrims' since 2011. Although primary trained, I now teach maths and history, mostly to the older years.  I have a degree in politics (and a PGCE), and I enjoy lunchtime debates with the boys. I also have an MA in Educational Leadership, and I am Chair of Governors at a local primary school.

A keen sportsman, I run the 1st XI soccer and 2nd XI cricket. I play the drums, and was a percussionist in an orchestra when I was at school. Before Pilgrims' I worked at an international school in China and a boarding school in Hertfordshire. I live close to Pilgrims' with my wife, who is also a teacher, and our two daughters. Much of my spare time is spent on family trips out; however, I do still find time to play golf (badly) occasionally. 

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Before my current role as Deputy Head (Academic), I joined Pilgrims’ as Head of Juniors in 2018, having previously done a similar job in Surrey for six years. I have always worked in the independent sector, primarily in all boys’ schools. Keen to ensure that every boy flourishes and loves their time at Pilgrims', I am particularly passionate about helping the boys develop a love of reading.

I have a degree from Cardiff University in Music and Education, and completed my PGCE just up the road at the University of Winchester.  I recently completed a Masters in Educational Leadership at the University of Buckingham. 

Music and sport are keen interests, and I am equally at home enjoying a performance at the Royal Opera House as I am cheering on my team at Twickenham!

With nearly 30 years of teaching experience, I’ve had the privilege of guiding and nurturing young minds throughout my career. I began teaching at a Cathedral school in Devon and have since taught in various settings, both state and independent. This breadth of experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of different educational contexts. I am passionate about working with the Pre-Prep boys here at Pilgrims’, helping to cultivate their curiosity and confidence during these formative years. My approach to teaching is rooted in creating a nurturing, engaging environment where each child feels valued and inspired to learn.

Outside of school, I live by the sea, which has become a source of relaxation and creativity for me. One of my greatest passions is searching for sea glass along the shore and transforming these treasures into art. This hobby allows me to blend my love for nature with my artistic side. In my free time, I cherish walks with my husband, children, and our dog, exploring the coast and appreciating the simple beauty of the sea. Being married to a musician, I’ve been fortunate to experience world-class music in some of the UK’s most iconic venues, enjoying a host of incredible musical events. When I’m in my school office, listening to the ensembles rehearsing, it truly is music to my ears! I also enjoy going to the theatre, watching both plays and musicals, which further enriches my love for the arts.

Whether I’m teaching in the classroom or combing the beach for mermaid treasure, I’m continually inspired by the world around me and enjoy bringing that sense of wonder into my work with the boys here at Pilgrims'.

My Prep school Maths teacher Mrs Pringle-Patterson (Mrs PP) first inspired me to be a teacher. She was a fantastic lady! To the younger children she was frightening, but as you got older you realised she was a truly inspirational teacher and one of the most caring people you could wish to meet. Although no longer with us, I am so thankful that we remained in contact, and she became a close friend.

Pilgrims' School is a truly special place for many reasons. The boys create such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere from the moment you step into the school. Very quickly you get swept away with the history and tradition, whilst becoming acutely aware of the high expectations the School has in all areas. The constant flow of music throughout the corridors never fails to calm whilst simultaneously making you smile.

I graduated with a degree in Drama and Theatre from Royal Holloway. Life as an unemployed actor did not pay the bills, so I spent a couple of years working at Coffin Mew Solicitors in Residential Conveyancing and Probate before moving into teaching. My teaching career has seen me wear various different hats, including Games Teacher, Assistant Housemaster, General Subjects Teacher, Year 3&4 Teacher and Head of Junior Department Academic. I have worked in prep schools over the past 11 years, including Boundary Oak, Salisbury Cathedral School and Westbourne House prior to arriving at Pilgrims’.

When I'm not in the classroom, I like spending time with my wife and young daughter, enjoying the countryside, and my wife’s small family farm provides plenty of opportunity to be outside. When not helping to look after a small flock of sheep, I have been entrusted to maintain the vegetable garden at the farm which had been the pride and joy of my wife’s grandfather for many years. Aside from this, I am lucky that my knees are just about up to playing competitive football when time allows, with golf being the other sport I play as regularly as I can.

John joined Pilgrims’ as Head of Maths in 2016, continuing a career of over 20 years teaching and leading maths. He studied maths at Nottingham University and then took his PGCE at Exeter University. Away from Pilgrims’, John can be found on the water.