Redshift Education is pleased to confirm an important leadership transition at Long Close School, with Andy Bowden, currently Deputy Head, becoming Headmaster from January 2027.
After careful consideration, Dr Richard Robson has decided to move on to an exciting new chapter in his career, establishing his own business in education. Richard will remain in post until the end of December, allowing time for a planned handover and a smooth transition.
Redshift Education would like to thank Richard for his contribution to Long Close School over the past few years, and particularly for his commitment to its pupils, families and staff. We wish him every success in his new venture.
Dr Richard Robson said:
“It has been a privilege to lead Long Close School and to work alongside such a dedicated and talented community. I am incredibly proud of our pupils and of everything the school has achieved.
“After careful consideration, I have decided that the end of this term is the right time for me to begin the next chapter. I am grateful for the support I have received from pupils, families and colleagues, and I am delighted to be handing over the leadership of the school to Andy Bowden. I know the school is in very good hands and wish the whole Long Close School community every success for the future.”
An experienced leadership team
Andy Bowden’s appointment provides continuity for pupils, families and staff. As an established and highly valued member of the Senior Leadership Team, Andy knows the school, its pupils and its families exceptionally well.
He holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management and brings considerable experience of the school’s day-to-day operations, educational priorities and wider development. As an Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspector, he also brings valuable professional insight into inspection and regulatory requirements.
Andy Bowden said:
“I am honoured to be taking on the role of Headmaster of Long Close School. Having been part of the school’s leadership team, I know what makes this community so special.
“I would like to thank Richard for his leadership and contribution to the school. My priority will be to ensure continuity for our pupils and families while building on the many strengths already in place. The values and ambitions of Long Close School remain firmly at the heart of our work, and I am excited about leading the school into its next chapter.”
Andy will be supported by Ian Powell, who will take on the role of Associate Headmaster, overseeing aspects of the school’s day-to-day running.
Ian brings exceptional depth of knowledge and experience, having been part of the Long Close community for 19 years. He also holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH). Andy and Ian have worked together as the school’s Deputy Head team for the past four academic years, providing a strong foundation for continued collaboration and effective leadership.
Together, they bring an established understanding of the school, its people and its priorities, providing a reassuring degree of continuity as Long Close moves into this next chapter.
A message from Redshift Education
Tim Fisher, Chairman of Redshift Education, said:
“Long Close is a school with a strong identity, a dedicated staff team and a community that cares deeply about its pupils. We are grateful to Richard for his contribution and wish him every success as he embarks on his new venture.
Andy’s appointment reflects the strength of the leadership already within the school. He knows Long Close exceptionally well, and his experience, educational expertise and commitment to the school make him well placed to lead it forward. With Ian continuing to play an important role, Long Close will have an experienced leadership team with a deep understanding of its community.
At Redshift Education, our responsibility is to support each of our schools in preserving what makes them special while providing the leadership and foundations they need to flourish. For Long Close, that means building on its existing strengths, maintaining continuity for pupils and families, and continuing to deliver an excellent education.
We look forward to supporting Andy, Ian and the wider team as Long Close begins this next chapter with confidence.”
Looking ahead
We recognise that a change in Headship is an important moment for any school community. We want to reassure families that the things that matter most at Long Close will remain firmly in place.
The school’s commitment to excellent teaching, pupil wellbeing, personal development and close partnerships with families will continue to guide its work. Its values, ambitions for pupils and welcoming community will remain at the heart of the school.
The transition has been planned with continuity in mind, with Richard and Andy working together ahead of the end of December to support a smooth handover.
While this marks the beginning of a new chapter for Long Close, it builds on the strong foundations already in place. With Andy and Ian providing experienced, familiar leadership, and the continued support of Redshift Education, the school is well positioned to move forward positively.
We look forward to supporting the Long Close community throughout this transition and in the years ahead.
