Pledging to help the college and preparatory school go 'from strength to strength' in the coming years, the new head of Cheltenham College, Chris Townsend, has officially taken up the role this spring 2026, following his appointment last July.
Bringing 'a proven track record of innovation in the academic, pastoral and co-curricular sphere', SoGlos sits down with Chris to learn more about his background, passions and experience, his admiration for the college's sense of community and broad education, and his vision for the future of the prestigious independent school.
Chris, tell us a bit about yourself and your career so far.
Before coming to Cheltenham, I was head at Felsted School in Essex for nearly 11 years. Before that, I was a deputy head, boarding housemaster, teacher of classics and head of cricket. I have worked in independent boarding schools for 30 years now and I have greatly enjoyed the opportunity to have some influence – hopefully positive! – on the lives of many young people over the years.
My own children are now in their 20s, with our son David staying over in Essex where he is a vet, while Lydia is just finishing her psychology degree at St Andrew’s. My wife Mel was a deputy head at an academy back in Essex, and is currently taking a masters in creative writing. Also at home, we have two Irish setters, Stella and Scout, who are enjoying exploring their new home!
Sport has always been a big part of my life and I am still on the board with Essex County Cricket Club, although I am looking forward to playing a bit of cricket in Gloucestershire. In recent years, I have also got into marathon running, and this April was lucky enough to run Brighton Marathon with my son, and London Marathon with my daughter.
How does it feel to be starting your new role as head of Cheltenham College?
It is a real honour to have the opportunity to take on the headship at Cheltenham College. Leading a school is a huge responsibility as it impacts so many people: the pupils, the parents, the staff, the former pupils.
Having been a head for the last decade, it is really invigorating to be starting this new chapter and I am really looking forward to getting to know everyone and really getting to know the college, so that I can help it go from strength to strength in the years ahead.
The college has a long-held reputation as one of the best independent schools in the South West – what do you think it is that makes it so special?
The college’s reputation is well earned. There are so many strengths, but the things that really appealed to me about coming here were that the academic standards are so high, and the progress that pupils make is hugely impressive.
I have always believed in the importance of offering a broad education and there cannot be many places where there are more opportunities available than at Cheltenham. The community at Cheltenham, based on a tradition of boarding, is particularly strong, from the nursery, through the prep school and into the college itself.
Finally, sport has always played a big part in my educational philosophy. Sport helps young people to stay healthy, physically and mentally, and also creates a great sense of belonging. The sport at the college is central to the experience of all the young people.
What do you hope to bring to Cheltenham College as head?
I am keen to see Cheltenham College build on its strong reputation in all the areas above, while also ensuring that it remains relevant and modern in a very fast moving world.
Preparing young people for the world after school, supporting them as individuals while here, and giving them the skills to succeed. I also want the pupils to enjoy their time at Cheltenham.
Lastly, you know Cheltenham well having grown up locally – what is your favourite thing about the town?
One of the great things about coming to Cheltenham is the opportunity to get involved in the many festivals. For our musicians to participate in Cheltenham Jazz Festival or our students to be a part of Cheltenham Literature Festival is really special.
As well as that, the Cheltenham Education Partnership offers a great way for the college to interact with many other schools across the town and add value to even more young people.
I am also very excited for the chance to host Cheltenham Cricket Festival at the College.
