Pennthorpe School to Join the Hurst Family of Schools

Published by Pennthorpe School on Monday 5th of January 2026

Pennthorpe School will be joining the Hurst family of schools from the start of the Spring Term 2026, entering into a partnership led by Hurstpierpoint College

Pennthorpe School will be joining the Hurst family of schools from the start of the Spring Term 2026, entering into a partnership led by Hurstpierpoint College.

The partnership follows careful consideration by the governing bodies of both schools, who identified a strong alignment of values, ethos and educational approach. Both Pennthorpe and Hurst are charitable, values-led institutions with a long-standing commitment to providing an exceptional all-round education for children in the region.

Pennthorpe will retain its identity, ethos, leadership and location, with daily life at the school continuing as parents and pupils know it. The school will be known as “Pennthorpe – Part of the Hurst Family of Schools”, reflecting both continuity and the benefits of being part of a larger, well-established group.

Richard Sharkey, Chair of Governors at Pennthorpe, said the partnership secures the school’s future while protecting what makes it special. He described Hurst as “a perfect fit,” sharing Pennthorpe’s commitment to inspiring and nurturing children, and offering experience and strategic strength that will support the school’s long-term success without compromising its distinctive ethos.

Karen Mack, Chair of Governors at Hurst, highlighted the close relationship already enjoyed by the two schools. She noted that many Pennthorpe pupils who move on to Hurst for their senior education “go on to thrive and excel,” adding that the partnership offers clear benefits for both schools and the wider community.

The collaboration brings increased financial resilience and long-term security at a time of significant change in the independent schools sector, while opening up new opportunities for pupils and staff. Dominic Mott, Head of College at Hurst, said Pennthorpe stood out early in Hurst’s strategic planning and praised the quality of education already being delivered at the school.

The announcement comes as Jon Marler prepares to take up his role as the new Head of School at Pennthorpe. He said the partnership made his appointment particularly meaningful, describing Pennthorpe and Hurst as “the top two schools” where he had most wanted to work. He added that he was honoured by the trust placed in him to lead Pennthorpe into its next chapter while preserving the qualities that make it such a special school.

Governance arrangements will ensure stability and continuity, with Pennthorpe maintaining its own Board of Governors and the Pennthorpe School Trust continuing to oversee safeguarding, performance and strategy.

The announcement also coincides with Pennthorpe’s forthcoming Open Morning on Thursday 5 March, offering prospective families the opportunity to visit the school, meet staff and pupils, and learn more about its future as part of the Hurst family of schools.