Wells Cathedral School installs 86th headmaster

By Laura Linham 28th Sep 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 hour ago

Wells Cathedral School has formally installed James Davies as its 86th headmaster during a special Choral Evensong at Wells Cathedral.

The service took place on Sunday, 13 September and was attended by guests including the Mayor of Wells, the school's chair of governors, former heads from both the Prep and whole school, and members of the boarding community.

Before Mr Davies was installed, two new choristers were presented to Canon Precentor the Reverend Canon Tim Stevens by cathedral director of music Timothy Parsons.

The Dean of Wells, the Very Reverend Toby Wright, admitted the boys to the choir before they were presented with their surplices by the head and deputy head choristers.

Both boys will be educated at Wells Cathedral School.

The service also marked 25 years of service by Vicar Choral Simon Clulow to the Cathedral Choir and Foundation.

Robert Powell, chair of governors at Wells Cathedral School, then presented Mr Davies to the Dean of Wells for installation as a member of the Foundation and Cathedral Church of St Andrew in Wells.

Mr Davies was installed in the Cathedral Quire, accompanied by members of the Chapter, his close family and the school's Upper Sixth heads and deputy heads.

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The hymns used during the service were chosen by Mr Davies, with readings given by the heads of school, Mr Davies himself and the Reverend Canon Dr Megan Daffern.

The service was followed by a reception at Cedars House, where speeches were given by Mr Powell, Timothy Parsons and the newly installed headmaster.

The school said the event marked the beginning of a new chapter as it looks ahead under Mr Davies' leadership.

Wells Cathedral School is also inviting children interested in cathedral music to take part in its next Be a Chorister for a Day event on Sunday, 4 October.