'Thrilled and deeply honoured’: Northern Ireland man takes top job at one of the UK's leading boarding schools
Richard Girvan has become the 12th head of the prestigious Edinburgh school Fettes College after a career at leading independent schools in Cambridge and London
A Northern Ireland man has said he is ‘thrilled and deeply honoured’ after taking up the top job at one of the UK's leading boarding schools.
Richard Girvan took up his post as headmaster of Fettes College in Edinburgh this month, succeeding Helen Harrison, who is retiring after seven years at the top.
Speaking about his new role, Mr Girvan said he was looking forward to building on the school’s long history and strong reputation.
"I am thrilled and deeply honoured to take up my post as the 12th Head of Fettes College," he said.
"I eagerly look forward to leading Fettes into its next chapter — one that builds on excellence and embraces opportunity."
Originally from Belfast, Mr Girvan moved onto the 100-acre Fettes College campus with his wife, Tessa, and their three children, Molly, Ruairi and Finn, in August.
The family are now living in the Head’s Lodge, and Mr Girvan said they have already been made to feel ‘very much at home’.
"From our first interaction, I have been struck both by the warmth of the welcome and by the pride with which pupils, staff, and parents speak about the school," he continued.
"There is an impressive conviction about this place — a sense of belonging that is both reassuring and inspiring — and it is so clearly a home from home for its pupils."
Founded in 1870, Fettes is a co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged five to 18. The school was established thanks to a generous bequest from Scottish entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir William Fettes.
Reflecting on the school’s 156-year heritage, Mr Girvan continued: "I am beyond excited to be part of a school with such a rich history, in such a wonderful setting, and with such a community-focused spirit.
“Over the coming weeks and months, I look forward to getting to know as many families as possible.”
He added: “Fettes is guided by a clear and compelling vision. A vision shaped by the values and aspirations that have defined the school over many years and one that I feel privileged to inherit and steward in the years ahead.”
Mr Girvan joins Fettes after six years as principal of the Stephen Perse Foundation in Cambridge and Saffron Walden.
Before that, he spent eight years at St Paul’s School in London where he worked as a maths teacher before moving into senior roles including director of sport and safeguarding lead
His education career began after graduating from Cambridge, where he studied Engineering at St Catharine’s College and completed his PGCE.
He was also a keen sportsman at university, representing Cambridge in both rugby union and rugby league and earning a Blue as well as student international caps.
Until summer 2026 Richard sat on the Academy Council at North Cambridge Academy and has previously held board positions, including two as a governor.