Downside School has announced the appointment of Mike Randall as its new Head.
Mr Randall joined Downside as Deputy Head in August 2018 and has been Interim Head since 2025, following the retirement of Andrew Hobbs. During his seven years as Deputy Head he helped to drive the school’s academic success, which has consistently placed Downside in the top five per cent of schools nationally for value added results at GCSE and A Level.
Before coming to Downside, Mr Randall was Deputy Headmaster at Abbeyfield School and Branch Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL). He was educated at The Oratory School and holds a degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Manchester.
He was the unanimous choice of the interview panel, following a rigorous search and selection process that ended with two days of final-round interviews.
John Ludlow, Chair of Governors, said: “Mike has led Downside with a clear vision and collegiate approach over the past year, and was the panel’s unanimous choice. We are delighted that he will continue to lead the school as it enters an exciting phase of development and growth.”
Mike Randall said: “It is a privilege to be appointed Head of Downside. Education here is not transactional, it is transformational. Rooted in our Catholic and Benedictine tradition, we aim to form young people for life, not just for exams, so that they can truly achieve their potential. I am grateful to the governors, pupils, parents, staff and Old Gregorians who make this such a special community, and such a great school.”