Mr John Prior

John has over thirty years’ experience in the education sector, including twenty-five years in a range of leadership roles. He has led organisational development and innovation in complex educational environments, bringing a mission-led commitment to high-quality, inclusive education. He offers knowledge, experience and advocacy at a broader system level, contributing positively to SEND policy, process, design or attitudinal change within local, regional and national landscapes.

As a Headteacher, John delivered rapid transformation from special schools in challenging circumstances, as well as securing sustainably excellent provision over a long period of time. Most recently, he was the CEO for one of the largest specialist Multi-academy Trusts in England, as well as the CEO for a multi-campus, pan-London specialist FE college for students with SEND. He has an honours degree from the University of Surrey, a Master’s in Education from Brunel, holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) and has previously worked as a qualified Ofsted inspector.

John has extensive experience of working collaboratively, strategically and successfully with Trust Boards and local governance structures, regulators, local authorities, health partners and other wider stakeholders, such as charities. He has a strategically focused mindset with a core emphasis on outstanding learner outcomes.

John lives in Horley with his wife – also a Headteacher – and their youngest two children, who are currently on roll at Dunottar, as well as an assortment of pets. He is a Fulham fan, an occasional Masters Swimmer, infrequently published children’s poet, writes and plays music and loves to cook.