The Governors of Loretto School are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Pete Richardson as the next Head of Loretto School from August 2024. Current Head, Dr Graham R W Hawley (Hon.), retires at the end of the Summer term after 10 year’s outstanding service.

Mr Richardson is currently Vicegerent (Principal Deputy Head) and since joining Loretto he has demonstrated all the qualities needed to lead the school in the next chapter of its development. His own values and educational philosophy align with Loretto’s emphasis on a holistic education incorporating Mind, Body and Spirit. Mr Richardson’s wife, Mel, is the Junior School Administrator and both are committed to ensuring that Loretto maintains its family ethos whilst providing a first-class education. Pete and Mel’s two children are both pupils at Loretto.

Pete graduated from the University of Kwazulu-Natal with a BA(Hons) in English Literature before completing his PGCE at the University of South Africa. He has dedicated his entire career to educational excellence in both academic and pastoral roles. Pete joined us from Gordonstoun, where he was an Assistant Head of Boarding and, prior to this, he was a Housemaster at Worksop College where he taught English and History. When Pete first came to the UK from South Africa with his wife, Mel (also an experienced teacher), he taught English and Media Studies in Cambridgeshire. A keen sportsman, Pete has competed in ultra-marathons and iron-distance triathlons while also playing cricket and squash at a high level. Mel is also a keen sportswoman and, as a family, they love to travel and explore the great outdoors.

Mr Richardson said “I am honoured to have been chosen to lead Scotland’s oldest boarding school into its third century, from August this year. I was originally drawn to Loretto for its warm atmosphere, the exceptional pupils we met, and its unique setting and history. Since joining the Loretto family, my initial impressions have been confirmed; it is an exceptional school. I feel privileged to have been chosen to lead Loretto School through this next exciting chapter and cannot wait to begin my new role”.

Mr Richardson and Dr Hawley will be working immediately on a smooth transition and I know you will wish to join me in congratulating Pete on his appointment.

Yours faithfully,

Peter McCutcheon (1981) MBE MA LLB

Chair of Board of Governors
On behalf of the Board of Governors of Loretto School