Pennthorpe School Announces Strategic Partnership with Hurstpierpoint College

Pennthorpe School has announced that it will join the Hurst family of schools from the start of the Spring Term 2026, in a partnership led by Hurstpierpoint College.

 

The move represents a strategic alignment between two charitable, values-led institutions and reflects wider sector trends towards collaboration, resilience and long-term sustainability.

The partnership was approved following detailed due diligence by the governing bodies of both schools, who identified a strong alignment of educational philosophy, ethos and ambition. Karen Mack, Chair of Governors at Hurst, said the relationship builds on an established pathway between the schools, noting that Pennthorpe pupils who progress to Hurst “consistently thrive and excel,” and that the partnership aligns closely with Hurst’s long-term strategic objectives.

Under the agreement, Pennthorpe will retain its identity, leadership, ethos and location, operating as “Pennthorpe – Part of the Hurst Family of Schools.” Day-to-day operations will remain unchanged, while the school benefits from increased resilience, shared expertise and strategic support within a larger group.

Richard Sharkey, Chair of Governors at Pennthorpe, said the decision carefully balanced continuity with opportunity. He emphasised that safeguarding Pennthorpe’s distinctive character was central to the process, while also recognising the importance of financial stability and experienced strategic leadership in a rapidly evolving independent schools’ landscape.

Dominic Mott, Head of College at Hurst, said Pennthorpe was an obvious choice when identifying potential partner schools. He highlighted the strength of its educational provision and expressed enthusiasm for working collaboratively to plan for the school’s long-term future within the Hurst family.

The announcement coincides with the appointment of Jon Marler as Head of School at Pennthorpe. Mr Marler described the partnership as “the perfect scenario” for taking on his first headship, noting that both Pennthorpe and Hurst had long been schools where he most wanted to work. He said he was honoured by the confidence placed in him by both governing bodies and looked forward to leading Pennthorpe into its next phase of development.

Pennthorpe will continue to be governed by its own Board of Governors, with the Pennthorpe School Trust retaining responsibility for safeguarding, performance and strategic oversight.

The partnership will formally commence in Spring Term 2026.

January 2026