Yarm School Headmaster, David Dunn, has announced that he will be retiring at the end of the new academic year, in summer 2019.
Appointed in 1999 to succeed Yarm School’s founding Headmaster, Neville Tate, this will be Mr Dunn’s 20th year in charge of the famous independent school, an unusually long tenure. During his headship he has guided the school into full coeducation, through three outstanding inspections, overseen the ambitious redevelopment of the school and raised Yarm’s profile to national renown for its academic results, sporting prowess and performing arts successes.
Mr Dunn’s vision led to the construction in 2013 of the award-winning Princess Alexandra Auditorium, which has since become one of the area’s leading performance venues and a popular performing arts community hub.
A strong believer in the benefits of a well-rounded education, Mr Dunn leads the Yarm School staff in their “Educating for Life” philosophy. Embodying this ethos, the school has recently developed its music and sporting facilities, including an award-winning Music School and a stunning boathouse opened by former pupil and Olympic gold medallist Kat Copeland.
Mr Dunn said: “It has been a great privilege to lead this fantastic school over 20 successful years. I have loved the job and am extremely proud of what we have all achieved. I wish my successor as much happiness and fulfilment as I have enjoyed.”
Mr Dunn and his colleagues are currently working on an exciting and ambitious development project at the Prep School, to include new facilities and improved parking provision. The Board of Governors has commissioned Mr Dunn to advise the school in a consultancy capacity to bring their current development plans to fruition.
Chairman of Governors Stephen Davidson is fulsome in his praise for Mr Dunn commenting: “David has been a phenomenal and inspirational leader who has done so much to ensure that, as we approach the 40th anniversary of our foundation, we can look to the future with justifiable optimism and confidence.”
Anthony Millard Consultants have been appointed to lead the recruitment process and advise the Board. It is anticipated that Mr Dunn’s successor will be appointed before Christmas.