THE new headmaster of a school in Taunton spent the summer exploring Somerset with his wife and children before settling into his new post.

Staff and pupils at King’s College are starting the new academic year by welcoming Michael Sloan, who was previously deputy headmaster at Brighton College.

Mr Sloan grew up in Northern Ireland and attended the Methodist College, in Belfast, before going on to read ancient history and politics at Newcastle University.

After commissioning from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, he served as an officer in The Rifles for six years, during which time he was deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo.

Mr Sloan is no stranger to the South West and completed his Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at the University of Bristol.

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He then embarked on his career as a history teacher at Emanuel School in London, where he was a head of year.

After that, he joined the senior management team at Brighton College initially as assistant head (head of middle School), before being promoted to deputy head (common room) and subsequently to deputy head (pupils) and designated safeguarding lead.

Michael and his wife Hannah have enjoyed the summer touring around Somerset with their three young sons, Rory, Finley and Milo, who start at King’s Hall School this term.

The family enjoy walking and travel, and Mr Sloan is a keen sportsman, avid reader and an enthusiastic cook.

Commenting on his plans for King’s College, Mr Sloan said: “I’m immensely proud and honoured to be joining a school that promotes a lifelong love of learning and provides unrivalled opportunities for pupils.

“King’s is an outstanding school with a rich history dating back to 1880.

"What sets it apart today is its vibrant and dynamic family community, inspiring pupils to fulfil their potential and make a real difference in the world around them.

“I’m looking forward to working collaboratively with the King’s community to build on our proud history and tradition, and to lead the school into the next exciting chapter of its development.”

Mr Sloan replaces Richard Biggs, who retired at the end of the summer term.