Tring Park School for the Performing Arts has announced the retirement of its long-standing principal Stefan Anderson, following a distinguished 21-year career at the school and over 40 years in education.
At the same time, the school has revealed the appointment of former dancer Simon Larter-Evans – currently head at St Paul’s Cathedral School – who will start at principal in September 2023.
Growing up in Canada, Stefan Anderson discovered his passion for music. He moved to the UK to study the discipline at both the Royal College of Music and University of Cambridge. He then began his teaching career at Wellington College and The King’s School Canterbury, before joining Tring Park School (formerly Arts Ed School) in 2002.
Commenting on his retirement Stefan said: “Tring Park School is unique and will hold a special place in my heart. It has been an honour to work with the most dedicated teaching staff and incredibly talented young people over the past 21 years. The buzz and energy that fills the school is unmatchable and I will continue to follow its progress and watch on with pride during my retirement.”
Newly appointed principal Simon Larter-Evans also comes from an arts background, beginning his career as a dancer following his training at The Rambert Academy. His varied career path saw him work within both the PR and publishing industries, ultimately re-training as a teacher.
Roles in education have seen him working within several world class institutions, including as head of boarding and English at Yehudi Menuhin School and most recently as head of St Paul’s Cathedral School.
Simon said: “Tring Park School is a vibrant hub of extraordinary talent. I’ve known of the school for decades and am aware of its reputation of being a real centre of excellence for young performers, with a wonderfully strong sense of community that people carry for life.
“I wanted to be part of that. My aim is to build on the already fantastic achievements the school has, from performing across all vocational disciplines, to excellence in academics.”
Angela Odell, chair of governors at Tring Park said: “After working hard to find the right fit following Stefan’s incredible career with us, we knew we needed an individual with a similar passion for education and the performing arts, who also shares our vision of providing the best combined vocational and academic education.
“We are thrilled to have Simon on board and thank Stefan for his unwavering dedication, wishing him well on his well-deserved retirement.”