Headington School Oxford has announced the appointment of Dr Stephen Burley as its next Headmaster, with effect from September 2027.
Dr Burley is currently Headmaster of King’s High School, Warwick, one of the UK’s leading independent girls’ schools. Under his leadership, King’s High was named Independent School of the Year in both 2021 and 2025, while Dr Burley was recognised nationally as Tatler Best Head of a Public School in 2025.
The appointment marks a return to Headington for Dr Burley, who was Head of English from 2013 to 2016 before moving into senior leadership and headship at King’s High School. He returns with a strong reputation for academic excellence, pastoral leadership and educational innovation. It also comes as the School prepares to enter an exciting new chapter under its new name, Headington School Oxford, reflecting its confidence in the future and its commitment to building on its long-established reputation for educational excellence.
Mrs Carol Oster Warriner, Chair of Governors, said: “We are delighted to appoint Stephen following a highly-competitive recruitment process. He impressed governors, pupils and staff alike with his warmth, authenticity and clarity of vision.
“His commitment to future-focused education and equipping young people with the confidence, character and adaptability needed to succeed in the future aligns strongly with our vision for Headington School Oxford. Combined with his affection for the School and the breadth of experience he has gained since leaving, we are confident he is ideally placed to lead us through the next stage of our development.”
Dr Burley said: “I am honoured and delighted to be returning to Headington School Oxford. The School has always held a special place in my heart and I have followed its development with great interest and admiration.
“This is an exciting moment in the School’s history and I look forward to working with pupils, staff, parents and Governors to build on its many strengths and to ensure that every young person leaves with the confidence, character and skills to thrive in an rapidly changing world.”
Current Headmistress Caroline Jordan will step down at the end of August 2027 after what will by then have been 16 years of exceptional leadership. The School will celebrate her significant contribution during the coming academic year while working closely with Dr Burley to ensure a smooth transition.