Jonathan WJ Gillespie

Jonathan WJ Gillespie, MA (Cantab), FRSA. After reading Modern and Medieval Languages and completing his PGCE at Selwyn College, Cambridge, Jonathan taught French and German at Highgate School, London, before joining Fettes College as Head of Modern Languages, subsequently becoming Housemaster of a boys’ boarding house (Moredun). He was appointed Head Master of Lancing College, West Sussex, in 2006, and eight years later he took up his second HMC headship at St Albans School, Hertfordshire, from which he retired in August 2024.

In addition to his academic, pastoral and leadership responsibilities he has been heavily involved in coaching sport, especially hockey, and as an officer in the Combined Cadet Force. He is an experienced hockey umpire (he has umpired more than 150 men’s games in the England Hockey League) and a keen hill-walker and golfer. He remains an enthusiastic piper following a successful period in professional solo competitions during the 1990s. Jonathan has also been a governor of several schools over the years.

Jonathan is married to Caroline and they have two adult sons. In his spare time, Jonathan enjoys classical music, reading and keeping fit.