Mr James Pilgrim

Headteacher

SEN Lead, Deputy DSL

After leaving University I began working for Barclays Bank, eventually working my way up to manage branches in and around Leicester. Although successful, it was rather unfulfilling, so I made the decision to return to Nottingham University to complete a PGCE in History.

I began my teaching career as an NQT at Shenley Brook End School in Milton Keynes, so it feels like I have come full circle by returning. This was a great time to join, and as the school developed I was able to take many opportunities to broaden my experience and knowledge.

I then moved to Icknield High School in Luton as Head of Humanities, and was later promoted to Assistant Headteacher; firstly with responsibility for Assessment for Learning, and then more widely with Teaching and Learning.

After several successful years at Icknield I moved to Burford School in Oxfordshire as Deputy Headteacher. Burford is a state boarding school in the Cotswolds, and I had a fantastic time there, experiencing all sorts of different aspects of education, both pastoral through the Boarding House, and academic through the day school. My initial responsibilities were for Curriculum and Standards, but I also took on the responsibility of Director of Boarding, and in September 2016 I took over Teaching and Learning.

In November 2017 I was appointed as Headteacher Designate for Kents Hill Park School – a fabulous and rare opportunity. I took up my full time post at Easter 2018.

Outside of school, I am an avid cricket and rugby fan, and a slow runner. I am married to Emma, also a teacher; and have a son, Freddie, who has just started secondary school.