Sedbergh School Appoints Robin Pyper as Headmaster of the Senior School
Following an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process, supported by expert guidance from Odgers, Sedbergh School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Robin Pyper as Headmaster of the Senior School, commencing April 2026.
This appointment marks another significant milestone for Sedbergh School and the recently established Sedbergh Schools Group, which currently comprises Sedbergh School, Sedbergh Prep School, Sedbergh Fuzhou and Sedbergh Vietnam.
Robin brings a wealth of experience from leading independent boarding schools across the UK. Educated at Gordonstoun School, he went on to complete a BSc (Hons) in Sport Science & Physiology at the University of Leeds and his teacher training at the University of Warwick. Latterly, he studied for a Masters in Education with Educational Leadership at the University of Exeter, gaining a Distinction.
Robin began his teaching career at Bloxham School before progressing through a series of leadership roles at Merchiston Castle School and Lord Wandsworth College, where he served as Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Designated Safeguarding Lead. He is currently Deputy Rector (Senior Deputy Head) at Dollar Academy, overseeing the daily operations of its 5–18 boarding and day community.
Dan Harrison, Executive Head of the Sedbergh Schools Group, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome Robin Pyper to Sedbergh as our next Headmaster. Robin impressed the Governors and senior leadership team with his warmth, integrity, and clear vision for leading a dynamic boarding school community. His commitment to developing the whole person aligns perfectly with Sedbergh’s values of Humility, Ambition, Resilience and Kindness. I am confident he will build upon Sedbergh’s strong foundations and continue to inspire pupils and staff alike. I’m really looking forward to working with Robin as we continue to enhance Sedbergh’s academic provision and the exceptional education we offer.”
Robin Pyper, incoming Headmaster, who will be joined in Sedbergh by his wife, Rachael, and two daughters, said:
“The opportunity to serve and lead a community as outstanding as Sedbergh’s is one which I am relishing. The School’s firm commitment to holistic education, underpinned by such strong core values, fosters an environment where every individual can thrive. Boarding life is at the heart of Sedbergh, and I look forward to working in partnership with pupils, staff, parents and alumni to strengthen our sense of belonging and ensure that Sedbergh continues to be a home where character, ambition and kindness flourish together.”
Dan Harrison, who joined Sedbergh after graduating from Cambridge University, has devoted his entire career to supporting pupils at Sedbergh School. His passion for the School remains as strong today as it was 32 years ago. As Executive Head of the Sedbergh Schools Group, he will continue to drive the strategic direction of the entire organisation and further support the commercial divisions, Sedbergh School Development Limited and Sedbergh School International Limited.
Chair of Governors, Richard Gledhill, added:
“The appointment of Robin marks an exciting new chapter for Sedbergh. He brings both experience and vision, and we are confident that under his leadership the Senior School will continue to flourish. This appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to recruiting the very best leaders for our community, those who share our values and ambition for the future.”
The announcement of Robin’s appointment follows a period of growth and success for Sedbergh School. Recently named European School of the Year 2025, Sedbergh also achieved an outstanding ISI inspection in June, highlighting the School’s exceptional boarding provision. These achievements, alongside continued investment in facilities, including a £3 million sports centre, £2 million international-standard Tiger Turf pitches, and a new Sixth Form Centre, reflect Sedbergh’s dedication to providing an exceptional education and preparing pupils for life beyond school.
Over the coming months there will be plenty of opportunities for the Sedbergh community to meet with Robin and further details will be shared in due course.