The King’s School is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Vivienne Horsfield as its next Head of Foundation, following an in-depth national search process.

Dr Horsfield will join King's in September 2027 from Westminster School, one of the world's leading independent schools, where she currently serves as a Deputy Head. She succeeds Jason Slack and will lead the Foundation into its next chapter, building on the significant success and growth achieved by Jason and his team during the past six years.

A highly respected educational leader with nearly three decades of experience in independent education, Dr Horsfield brings a blend of strategic vision, academic rigour, and a deep understanding of and commitment to holistic education. Her career has included senior leadership roles at Westminster School and The Manchester Grammar School, together with extensive governance experience as chair of governors and a trustee at a multi-academy trust, as well as several charity trusteeships.

Dr Horsfield holds a Doctorate in Education, a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and has been recognised throughout her career for her ability to lead change, develop talented high performing teams and champion exceptional educational opportunities for young people.

The appointment comes at an exciting time for King's as the School prepares to celebrate its 525th anniversary and continues to strengthen its position as one of the country's leading co-educational independent schools.

Commenting on the appointment, incoming Chair of Governors, Mr Jonathan Watkins, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Dr Horsfield to King's. Throughout the appointment process, Vivienne impressed us with her warmth, integrity and intellectual depth, and her clear strategic vision for the future of King’s.

"She brings experience from some of the most respected schools in the country, together with a genuine understanding of our region and a passion for widening opportunities for young people. The Governors were particularly impressed by her commitment to academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and development of the whole child.

"We are confident that Vivienne will inspire our pupils, staff, parents and wider community and build on the work done by Jason and his team as she leads King's into the next phase of its distinguished history."

Dr Horsfield said: "I am honoured and excited to have been appointed as the next Head of Foundation at King's. King's is a remarkable school with a proud heritage, a thriving community and a clear sense of purpose. What attracted me most was the prospect of leading a school that combines academic excellence with exceptional care for its pupils, and which places equal value on character, ambition and opportunity.

"As someone with strong roots in the North West, this feels both a professional privilege and a personal homecoming. I am excited to work with pupils, parents, staff and governors to build on the school's many strengths and to help shape an ambitious future for King's.

"Together, we will continue to ensure that every young person is challenged to achieve their very best, inspired to discover their passions and supported to flourish in all aspects of school life."

Her appointment reflects King's continuing commitment to delivering an exceptional all-through education, underpinned by academic ambition, outstanding pastoral care and a rich programme of opportunities beyond the classroom.

Dr Horsfield will take up her post in September 2027.