Bradfield College appoints Tom Beardmore-Gray as new Warden

Bradfield College has announced that its Council has formally elected Tom Beardmore-Gray MA FCA as the College’s new Warden with effect from 1st September 2022.

Tom is a former Bradfield parent. His daughter, Isla (M), was at the school from 2011-16 and two of his nephews and two of his nieces were also Bradfield pupils. Tom graduated from Oxford University in 1983. After three years with the Metropolitan Police and a business career with Price Waterhouse, Pepsi and De Beers, he became Chief Financial Officer of The Girls’ Day School Trust, one of the UK’s largest education charities. He is currently Chief Executive of Prep Schools Trust.

Tom has held a number of non-executive positions in the education sector, including Chair of Governors at Lambrook Prep School and Vice President of the University of Reading. He is currently a Director of the Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools. Tom is married to Yuki and they have three children. They live near Ascot in Berkshire.

Speaking about his appointment Tom said:

“It is a privilege to be joining the Bradfield Council as Warden. I very much look forward to re-acquainting myself with the Bradfield community at this exciting time for the Group. I would like to pay tribute to Sophia Bergqvist, who has presided over a period of significant growth and development for Bradfield during her tenure as Warden. I will be working closely with Sophia, colleagues on Council, Chris Stevens and Ed Graham to ensure a smooth transition.”

Tom will take over from Sophia Bergqvist who has given five years of exceptional stewardship since her tenure began in August 2017. On her time as Warden, Sophia said:

“All too quickly the five years are coming to an end and I have been getting ready to hand on the baton to a new Warden. I have very much enjoyed guiding Bradfield over the last five years and overseeing the success and growth of the College, despite the challenging COVID interval. With Tom ́s experience and knowledge of the school, I believe I am leaving Bradfield in very good hands.”