S. Anselm’s school in Bakewell has appointed Mr Peter Cook as Interim Head, following news that the leading co-educational day and boarding preparatory school in the Peak District is to remain open as result of a fundraising and re structure programme led by parents. 

Mr Cook takes up his role in September from Mrs Lisa Donnelly, who retired after 30 years at the end of the last academic year – and will lead S. Anselm’s into its next chapter as the school returns to independent ownership. 

A passionate and experienced school leader with a lifelong commitment to providing children with the best possible start in life, Mr Cook will oversee the enriching and innovative curriculum at S. Anselm’s, combining academic excellence with a thriving programme of sport, music and extracurricular opportunities to help each child grow in confidence and ability.

Previously Head of Maths and Rugby at S. Anselm’s in the 1980s and 1990s, Mr Cook has since taught at Kimbolton boarding school in Cambridgeshire, where he was deputy head at the preparatory school, and rejoins S. Anselm’s from Wellow House School, where he was Headmaster for 12 years. 

Mr Cook comments: “I am honoured to be taking up the role of Head at S. Anselm’s, steering the school in this exciting period of development and change. 

“As a school community we are both thrilled and proud that S. Anselm’s remains open for current and future pupils and will build on the school’s strong reputation and core vision of producing well rounded individuals and providing them with the best possible foundation for their ongoing education.” 

The school’s restructure programme includes a reduction in fees and the introduction of sponsorship opportunities regardless of means, alongside scholarships. 

Parent and businessman Matthew Brailsford, responsible for managing the deal to regain ownership of the school commented, “We are delighted to be welcoming Peter back to S. Anselm’s, bringing with him a wealth of institutional knowledge, and experience and understanding from across the education sector. 

“Following news that the school may have to shut as a result of increases in VAT, NI and business rates we have worked as a parent led team to ensure that this exceptional school would continue in its mission to play a fundamental role across the educational landscape and beyond, which I am delighted to say, it now will.”

He continued: “Our thanks to everyone who has played a part in ensuring that S. Anselm’s would re-open this September, be that through donations, time, expertise or goodwill – and our very best wishes to Peter as he now heads up the next stage from which the school is set to grow and thrive.”.

S. Anselm’s is to welcome a number of new pupils this September and is inviting any families interested in a tour and discussion on admission opportunities to contact Mrs Nicky Webster, the Head’s PA on 01629 812734