James Davies, Headmaster

James Davies, Headmaster

James Davies joined Wells Cathedral School in September 2026 as its 86th Headmaster, bringing with him over two decades of leadership experience and a lifelong devotion to music and the education of young people.

James arrives at Wells following nine years as Headmaster of Halliford School in South-West London, his third headship, during which he built a reputation for combining academic ambition with  genuine pastoral care with student voice at the heart of all that he stands for.  His greatest joy was achieving a significant strength in the most recent ISI Inspection, which recognised the impact and transformative power of his work on student voice at the School. That same philosophy now shapes his vision for Wells Cathedral School where every pupil is known, supported, and encouraged to flourish.

A music graduate of the Universities of Sheffield and Manchester, James’s career began in the classroom, teaching music and holding leadership roles across a number of independent 
schools in the north of England. While in Manchester, he had the rare privilege of accompanying a series of masterclasses for young string performers at the Royal Northern College of Music, led by the legendary Yehudi Menuhin, an experience that deepened his belief in the transformative power of music education, a belief he now brings to one of the world’s foremost music specialist schools.

James is an accomplished organist and choral director, having performed as both soloist and accompanist in cathedrals across the UK and overseas, and having previously served as Director of Music at several prominent parish churches. His musical life continues to inform his leadership, from the Cathedral to the classroom.

Beyond the School gates, James’s commitment to service runs deep. He is a Reporting Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate and a Board Member and Chair-elect of the Society of Heads, roles that keep him closely engaged with best practice across the independent sector. He also serves as Education and Safeguarding Governor at The Yehudi Menuhin School, chairing its Safeguarding and Education Committee, underlining his lifelong dedication to the welfare of young people.

A long-standing supporter of the RNLI, James has served as a lifeboat navigator and  continues to volunteer in its education programmes. Outside of work, he is a keen sailor and scuba diver, happiest by the coast with his faithful Labrador, Bracken, by his side. 

Since arriving at Wells, James has been struck by the strength of the School’s pastoral care and the breadth of opportunity available to its pupils. As he puts it:

“It is a privilege to be part of a school whose roots stretch back to 909 AD, and I look forward to building on that heritage and helping shape the School’s next chapter.”

With his experience, energy, and genuine warmth, James is excited to lead Wells Cathedral School into an inspiring new era.