ONE of Hampshire's top independent preparatory schools has appointed a new headteacher.

Governors at Walhampton School, near Lymington, have announced that Jonathan Timms is taking over from Titus Mills, who is leaving after eight years.

Mr Timms is currently senior deputy head at Caldicott Preparatory School in Buckinghamshire.

Iain Rawlinson, chairman of governors at Walhampton, said: “Jonny was the exceptional candidate in a very strong field during a thorough recruitment process, which included taking into account the views of parents, pupils and staff.

"As well as strong leadership, he brings exceptional academic experience and intellectual depth to Walhampton.”

Mr Timms will be joined at the school by his wife Sophie, who is planning to play an active role in school life alongside her own career in international development. They have two children, Artie, two, and one-year-old Teddy.

Mr Timms said: “Sophie and I are very much looking forward to joining the Walhampton family in January 2021.

"From our first visit to the school, we were instantly struck by the extremely warm and friendly welcome, and the potential for the continued development of the school based on its ethos and spectacular location.

"We are determined to build on the outstanding all-round education it offers."

Walhampton is a co-educational school with around 360 pupils aged two-13. Former students include Lord Montagu of Beaulieu.

In 2018 it was rated "excellent" by the Independent Schools Inspectorate and was also shortlisted for the Prep School of the Year award.

Titus Mills is leaving at Christmas to take up a new position as headmaster of Port Regis School in Shaftesbury, Dorset, where his wife Jemima will also play an active role.

A Port Regis spokesman said: "Titus and Jemima stood out and the governors’ decision was unanimous.

"It was clear to everyone during the rigorous selection process that they were a natural fit for Port Regis. Their warmth and energy were infectious.

"Walhampton has thrived under the combined guidance of Titus and Jemima, and parents speak of their outstanding vision, energy and commitment to the children and to the broader school family."

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