Clifton College Preparatory School announce appointment of new Head for September 2026

Clifton College Preparatory School are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr James Averis as their new Head from September 2026 following a rigorous recruitment process.

Mr Walton announced earlier this year that this year would be his last year as Headmaster of the Preparatory school after eight years in the role.  

Mr Averis is the current Deputy Head Pastoral at the Prep school, having joined Clifton in 2011 as a Geography teacher. Previously a professional cricketer with Gloucestershire CCC, he was a Housemaster for Wollaston's for eight years and combined this with being the Head of Geography before becoming safeguarding lead for the Preparatory and subsequently the Deputy Head Pastoral in 2021. His knowledge and understanding of the Clifton community will provide a smooth transition, and will be a familiar face amongst the staff, pupils and parents. 

James commented; "Having spent the past five years as Deputy Head Pastoral, I feel privileged to be appointed as Headmaster of the Preparatory School. Knowing our pupils, parents, and staff deeply,  I am committed to listening, understanding and partnering with parents to ensure every child continues to thrive.

“Stepping up into this role feels like a natural continuation of the work Jim and I have undertaken together. I look forward to honouring and preserving what we cherish most while embracing thoughtful innovation that enables our pupils to flourish in an ever-changing world.”

Chair of Clifton College Council, Mr Nick Tolchard  said: “We are delighted that in James we have a strong and experienced educational leader taking up the role, who also is well known to parents and provides continuity to the outstanding contribution made by Mr Jim Walton in his tenure as Head”.