Wells: Cathedral School names new headmaster

By Laura Linham 31st Mar 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 31st Mar 2026

Wells Cathedral School has confirmed the appointment of a new headteacher, with James Davies set to take over as headmaster from September 2026.

The Governors of the independent school announced Mr Davies will join from Halliford School in south-west London, where he has served as headmaster since 2017. He will succeed Alastair Tighe, whose eight-year tenure has seen the school record what governors described as the best A-level results in Somerset.

School leaders said Mr Davies brings a distinguished career in the independent sector. During his time at Halliford, he is said to have significantly increased pupil numbers and led the school through its most recent ISI inspection, securing a 'Significant Strength' judgement for the quality of pupil leadership.

Raised in Manchester, Mr Davies studied music at the University of Sheffield and has also held roles as director of music at parish churches. He is a reporting inspector for the Independent School Inspectorate and a board member and chair-elect of the Society of Heads.

Away from school leadership, Mr Davies has served for many years as a crew member with the RNLI and now contributes to the charity's educational work. He has also been described as a keen sailor and scuba diver. His Labrador, Bracken, is also expected to become part of the Wells Cathedral School community.

Robert Powell, chair of governors, said: "James's appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Wells Cathedral School, one rooted firmly in tradition, yet looking confidently to the future.

"His leadership will build on the strong foundations laid by Alastair Tighe, whose eight-year tenure has seen the School achieve the best A level results in Somerset.

"We are confident that James will guide Wells Cathedral School into its next phase with vision, warmth and a steadfast commitment to holistic education and excellence in music, sport and the creative arts.

"His arrival signals a renewed focus on nurturing every pupil's potential, while celebrating the distinctive values that make our School so unique."

Mr Davies said: "I am honoured to have been invited to serve as the 86th Headmaster of Wells Cathedral School and to carry forward its unique heritage as a leading HMC day and boarding school, as well as the home of one of only five specialist music schools in the UK.

"From my very first visit, I was struck by the warmth of welcome and the strong sense of community which immediately drew me in.

"I am excited to return to work in a boarding school and to share in the daily worship at the Cathedral. The School is a beacon of excellence across so many areas, and I look forward to getting to know all members of the community and working closely with Alastair Tighe to ensure a seamless transition in the months ahead."

Wells Cathedral School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school for children aged two to 18. Alongside its wider academic offer, it is also known for specialist music and chorister training.

The appointment is likely to be closely watched in Wells, where the school remains one of the city's best-known institutions. It follows previous education coverage including Wells Cathedral School achieves top grades in GCSE results and wider regional education stories.