A PREPARATORY school in Somerset has welcomed a new head.

Dan Thornburn, who has worked in a preparatory school environment for 20 years, started at Millfield Prep School this week.

This is his third role as head of school, having previously been head of Edgeborough School, in Surrey, since 2017, and prior to that head of St Petroc’s, Bude.

Dan said he was 'thrilled' to take on the new role.

"Millfield Prep is a school I have always wanted to lead," he said.

"After only being on campus for a few days, I can already feel the amazing energy and how eager the pupils are to learn and develop – it really excites me.

"It is a school with a vast array of opportunities for children of all interests that ensures every child has the chance to discover their brilliance.

"It is clear already that Millfield Prep is a really busy, energetic school, and that there are unparalleled opportunities for the pupils here.

"I have already heard it described as unique, brilliant, amazing and fantastic, and I look forward to experiencing those wonderful qualities myself.

“I am unashamedly ambitious for Millfield Prep and I aim for us to be seen and known as the best Prep School around.

“A major focus for me will be to ensure that kindness remains at the heart of everything that happens here and the school value ‘Be Kind’ is one that is really significant.

"To me, kindness is the bedrock of all truly happy and successful schools and I shall be sharing that message with the children in my first few weeks and beyond.”

Dan’s early teaching career included working at Lockers Park and Chafyn Grove prep schools.

Educated at Wrekin College, Dan was head boy under former Millfield Headmaster Peter Johnson.

He then studied history at Exeter University whilst playing rugby for the Exeter Chiefs 2nds. He also played rugby for Middlesex and gained an MEd in educational leadership from the University of Buckingham.

Dan is married to his wife Emi, who is a teacher and marketer. They have two children: Molly, who is in year eight, and Walter, who is in year six.

The pair also have two golden retrievers, Humphrey and Parsnip.