Pangbourne College confirms new head – Oliver Knight – from next September

A new head will be starting at Pangbourne College from next September.

The school said it was “delighted” to announce the appointment of Oliver Knight as its new head from September 2024.

Mr Knight will succeed Thomas Garnier, who is stepping down from the post in July after 19 years of dedicated service.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Knight said: “It is a huge honour to work with such a committed community of staff, students, parents and Old Pangbournians.

“I was struck during my visits to Pangbourne by how happy and relaxed the students were and the strength of the relationships between staff and students.

“I am excited to take up my post and am committed to being a faithful steward as we work towards ensuring every student flourishes and benefits from the uniqueness of a Pangbournian education.”

Pangbourne will be the fourth headship for Mr Knight, who transformed all three of his previous schools, including the Phoenix Academy — which was in special measures when he arrived.

Outdoor education and the co-curriculum — activities organised alongside the academic curriculum — are a strong part of Mr Knight’s ethos.

Mr Knight has recently set up a sports scholarship programme in conjunction with the human performance scientists who work for Red Bull and Aston Martin FI teams.

And his adventure programme has taken the first state school children to the top of Ben Nevis in winter.

Pangbourne College’s chair of governors, Patrick Roberts, said: “The field of candidates who applied to succeed Mr Garnier was strong but, notwithstanding this, the governing body was unanimous in its decision that Mr Knight must be our next head.

“The calibre of the field is testament to the progress and strength of Pangbourne under the leadership of Mr Garnier.

“This is a hugely exciting time for Pangbourne College and we are confident Mr Knight is absolutely the right person to take the school yet further forward.”

Mr Knight also happens to be a published author on education and teacher development. One of his publications on curriculum planning and lesson design is currently included in PGCE courses.

He currently sits on the board of a multi-academy trust and is a governor for a London prep school and senior school.