Trent College appoints new Head of The Elms from September 2025

The Governors of Trent College and The Elms have announced the appointment of Mr James Hadfield as the new Head of The Elms from September 2025.

Mr Hadfield is the current Deputy Head of Mowden Hall School in Northumberland. Since joining in 2016, he has fulfilled the roles of History teacher, Boarding House Assistant, Director of Studies, and, latterly, Deputy Head.

Prior to this James spent 12 years at Hazlegrove Preparatory School in Somerset as Head of History, Houseparent and Assistant Director of Studies.

Deborah Evans, Chair of Governors, commented “The Governors are delighted to welcome James to Trent College and The Elms. Having excelled as Deputy Head at Mowden Hall for four years, he has a passion for education and brings the experience needed to lead The Elms through what will be a challenging period for the whole sector.”

“Throughout the interview process James showed a thorough understanding of the tradition and values of the school and, in common with the Governors, he is excited for our future and shared a wealth of ideas that he would like to explore further when in role. We know that Trent College and The Elms provide an excellent education for all of our pupils and an outstanding preparation for life – which is exactly what parents are looking for.”

When informed of his appointment, Mr Hadfield said “I am truly honoured to join The Elms and Trent College’s vibrant community, which has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, co-curricular provision, pastoral care and character building. I look forward to working closely with staff, parents, pupils and the wider community to build on the school’s successes, whilst embracing new opportunities. As Head, my goal will be to ensure every child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for a bright and confident future.”

“My wife and I are very much looking forward to getting to know everyone associated with The Elms and Trent College over the coming months and I look forward to leading The Elms, in collaboration with Mr Penty, to a continued, brighter future.”

Mrs Faith Potter will remain Head of The Elms until she retires at the end of Trinity term, supported by the hard work and dedication of the Trent College and The Elms Leadership teams, and all teaching and support staff.

Mrs Potter has been a much liked and well-respected Head of The Elms and the entire school community thanks her for her hard work, dedication and achievements and wishes her well in her retirement, when it comes.

Mr Bill Penty, Head of Trent College, said “It has been a great pleasure and privilege to have been able to work closely with Faith Potter over the years, and I am deeply grateful for all that she has contributed to the success of The Elms. It is a great reassurance to me that Faith also believes that James has all the qualities we are looking for in a new Head.  I look forward very much to working with him to continue to ensure that this very special part of our community continues to flourish to the benefit of the whole school.”