Following an extensive recruitment process, S. Anselm’s School in Bakewell, Derbyshire is delighted to announce the appointment of Hannah Cunningham as Headteacher from September 2026. 

Hannah brings with her a wealth of experience from a range of distinguished teaching and leadership roles, including Head of Mylnhurst Preparatory School in Sheffield, and more recently Head of Junior School at Repton, Al Barsha, Dubai. 

Educated at Wakefield Girls’ High School, Hannah went on to complete a BA (Hons) in Music at the University of Manchester, followed by a PGCE also at the University of Manchester, achieving ‘Outstanding’.

The announcement of the new Head follows a period of significant growth and achievement for S. Anselm’s having established a new Board of Trustees at the beginning of the academic year. Last November the school announced they had successfully passed an Independent School Standards Inspection, and this last term, Little Puddings, the new year-round nursery opened its doors. 

Commenting on Hannah’s Appointment, Emma Harrison, Chair of Trustees at S. Anselm’s, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Hannah as our next Head. She bowled us over during the interviewing process by her great energy, sharp focus and clear sense of direction for the school. 

“Hannah’s strong background and capability, alongside an understanding of the school’s values and ongoing ambition will ensure that S. Anselm’s continues to build and thrive in the years ahead.”

In her new role, Hannah will work closely with staff, pupils, parents and trustees to develop the school, while continuing to nurture the distinctive spirit of S. Anselm’s.

Hannah commented: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining S. Anselm’s at such a crucial point in its history. The moment you step onto the school’s magnificent grounds, there is a sense that this is childhood done right. Children are given the space to explore, to take safe risks and to grow in confidence and character. We know that character is developed through adventure and experience, and now more than ever it will be character that shapes our children’s futures.

“We will continue to treasure the traditions that make a S. Anselm’s education so distinctive – from House matches and competitions, to the international choir tours – with the school-day giving children space and time to think deeply, develop lasting friendships and discover their passions and strength; while at the same time, it is my ambition that S. Anselm’s will be a pioneer, redefining what exemplary preparatory education looks like for today’s families: relevant, outward-looking and, above all, rooted in the belief that children thrive when they are trusted with freedom and responsibility. 

“Naturally, the Peak District is central to that direction. From its earliest days, the school recognised that the environment shapes how children learn and who they become; we now have the opportunity to build on that vision and reimagine prep-school life for a new generation. 

“After ten years working in some of the most respected schools in the UK and overseas, I bring a global perspective and a strong belief that children should grow up seeing a world full of opportunity: something to explore, to contribute to – and to help shape. 

“It is a privilege to be joining such a special community. Together, we will build on the strong foundations, setting a confident course for the school’s future through four guiding pillars: human-first education, the Peak District as a living classroom, academic excellence thoughtfully delivered, and character, confidence and care at the centre of school life. 

“I want every child to leave S. Anselm’s free range, fearless and future-ready, grounded in strong values, prepared – and excited – to find their place in the world.”

Peter Cook, current Head at S. Anselm’s, who has led the school during a transition period following a change in ownership at the end of last academic year will step down in July. 

Chair of Trustees, Emma Harrison continued: “We are extremely grateful to our current Head, Peter Cook for his hard work, dedication and support throughout this past year. Without Peter’s commitment and leadership, we would not be where we are today. His contribution to the school and to this process has been invaluable.”

S. Anselm’s will be hosting a Taster Day for prospective pupils from Reception to Year 8 on Monday 1 June, providing an opportunity to join lessons, meet classmates and staff, and understand firsthand what makes S. Anselm’s so distinctive. For further information and to book a place call the school office on 01629 343434 or click here. 

Families are also invited to the S. Anselm’s Discover Day on Saturday 13 June to explore and engage in an extensive range of Sport and Creative Performing Arts subjects offered at the school. For further information and to book a place please book online or contact the school office on 01629 343434.