A SCHOOL in Salisbury has announced a new chair of governors following "a competitive recruitment process" over the summer. 

James Clements will take on the role at Salisbury Cathedral School from the start of this academic year.

Mr Clements holds a first-class honours degree in composition from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

He began his career as a freelance musician before transitioning into education. He currently serves as Senior Deputy Head at Forest Preparatory School in East London.

James ClementsJames Clements (Image: Salisbury Cathedral School)

Throughout his career, James has held numerous leadership positions, including Director of Music and Deputy Head Academic.

In addition to his current role, James is an Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspector and a Fellow of both the Chartered College of Teachers and the Royal Society of Arts.

His governance experience includes serving as a governor for the Aquinas Trust in South London and chairing the Governing Body of Gilbert Colvin School, a primary school in London.

He also has a master's degree in educational leadership, and remains an active choral conductor, leading choirs across the country, and is the founder of SiNG, the Travelling Evensong Choir, which brings the tradition of evensong to parishes that may lack the resources to host such services.

The school said: "Mr Clements is delighted to join the Salisbury Cathedral School community and looks forward to collaborating with the leadership team, governors, and parents.

"His commitment to upholding the school’s values will support its nurturing and inspiring environment which enables every pupil to thrive."

Sally Moulton, Head of Salisbury Cathedral School, added: "I am thrilled to introduce James Clements as the new Chair of Governors. His wealth of experience in education and school governance will be invaluable to our community.

"We are confident that his expertise and dedication will significantly contribute to the continued success and development of our school."

Under James’s leadership, the Governing Body is set to continue guiding Salisbury Cathedral School toward a bright and prosperous future.