James Priory, Headmaster at Tonbridge School, on transformative mentorship and why joy is essential in teaching

 

In the latest episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber is joined by James Priory, Headmaster at Tonbridge School since August 2018. James brings a compelling story to independent education - from his beginnings as an assisted place beneficiary at King Edward's Birmingham to becoming the first internally appointed headmaster at Portsmouth Grammar School in almost 200 years.

With a first-class English degree from Lincoln College, Oxford, James has built his career on a foundation of academic excellence and genuine passion for young people. Beyond his headship at Tonbridge, James chairs the governing body education committee of Marsh Academy and serves as a governor at multiple schools, while also sitting on HMC's education committee. His love for choral music, theatre, and performance runs deep - both in his personal life and in his approach to education.  

πŸŽ™οΈ Episode highlights

  • James opens up about the transformative power of mentoring, particularly his relationship with Tim Hands (former Winchester College headmaster), and how being mentored has shaped his approach to developing others.

  • He shares a wonderfully quirky anecdote from his school days involving a dramatic fall during a Huckleberry Finn rehearsal that taught him more about caring and commitment than any lecture could.

  • James reflects on the toughest moments of headship, from losing community members to navigating the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19 school closures.

  • A heartwarming highlight emerges as he describes watching a former student perform Anthony at The Globe - a full-circle moment that captures the lasting impact of great teaching.

  • He offers his "unpopular opinion" on the enduring value of chapel in school life, defending its role in creating rhythm, reflection, and community.

  • His essential advice for educators? "Enjoy it and be seen to enjoy it" - finding genuine joy in teaching because if you're not enjoying it, neither will your students.

  • James discusses Tonbridge School's focus on storytelling and their informal motto β€˜only connect’, exploring how they're preparing young men for an increasingly complex world.

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Tomas Duckling, Headmaster of Dubai College, on why kindness is the bedrock of all good education