Aldwickbury School welcomes Paul Symes as its new Headmaster

Paul Symes has become the new Headmaster of Aldwickbury School, following the retirement of Vernon Hales. His appointment coincides with the start of a £3.75m project to create a new sports centre for the school.
Aldwickbury School
Mr Paul Symes - Headmaster of Aldwickbury School
September 12, 2021

The start of the new term at Aldwickbury School marks the beginning of a new era as the Boys’ Pre-Prep and Prep School in Harpenden announces the arrival of its new Headmaster, Paul Symes.

Mr Symes is only the school’s fifth Headmaster in its 70+ year history with his predecessor, Vernon Hales, having served 18 years at the school.

He joins the team at Aldwickbury from Belmont Prep School in North London where he has spent the past 6 years as Senior Deputy Head, responsible for the school’s pastoral care.

Commenting on his appointment Mr Symes said: "I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as the new Headmaster for Aldwickbury School.

"Understandably, I am passionate about leading Aldwickbury and its talented staff into the next chapter of its history.

"The school will continue to place pastoral care as the foundation for success in and outside the curriculum.

"I envisage Aldwickbury to continue to be a school that embraces its traditions and rich history while at the same time being forward-thinking in our approach."

Mr Symes new role as Head at Aldwickbury coincides with the start of an exciting £3.75M project to create a new sports centre for the school.

The new building, due for completion in September 2022, will provide a modern indoor sports complex to complement the school’s existing facilities and extensive outdoor sports grounds.

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Aldwickbury School is an independent day and boarding school for boys aged 4 to 13 in Harpenden in Hertfordshire. The school has announced it will be moving to coeducation from September 2025, welcoming girls into the Pre-Prep. Girls will then progress through the school year by year, with the school being fully coeducational by September 2031. Find out more about Aldwickbury School.