A NEW head has been appointed for Taunton School - and they are set to take over next year.

James Johnson, currently head of senior school at Ardingly College in Sussex, will take on the role of head and CEO from September 2022.

He is replacing Lee Glaser, who is standing down after eight years in the role.

READ MORE: Lee Glaser named as new Taunton School headmaster

“As much as I will miss Taunton, I am thrilled that James will be taking over the running of this amazing school from me," said Mr Glaser.

“This school year we are celebrating our 175th anniversary and with James at the helm, I have no doubt that Taunton School is entering a very exciting phase of its ongoing development.

“He is a very caring man who shares my passion for challenging, nurturing and inspiring young people to succeed in a global community.”

Mr Johnson is married with two children. He started his career as an English teacher at Cheltenham College, and then became housemaster at Tonbridge School in Kent.

He joined Ardingly College in 2016.

“It is a privilege to have been appointed as the next head of Taunton School," Mr Johnson said.

"I am especially excited about meeting pupils, staff, parents and alumni in the coming months.”

As a student he studied English at University College London, took an MPhil at Trinity College, Dublin and completed his PGCE at Cambridge University.

Chair of governors at Taunton School, Henry Keeling, said they are 'thrilled' Mr Johnson is taking over the role.

"His passion for heading up an all-through, co-educational school such as ours with its breadth of provision and global outlook shone through at every stage of the selection process," he added.

“Mr Glaser’s successful leadership of Taunton School had set a very high benchmark when it came to choosing a successor.

“Mr Johnson brings a wealth of experience and talent with him. We believe he is the perfect fit for Taunton School.”

Taunton School, founded in 1847, is a co-educational independent day and boarding schools for children aged 0-18 years.

It is home to a nursery, pre-preparatory school, a prep school, senior school and an international school.