Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk, has welcomed its new Headmaster, Irfan Latif, who took up his appointment on 1^st September.

Born in Chelsea, London, Mr Latif joined RHS with a passionate belief that education can transform lives. Mr Latif envisions RHS not just as an educational institution but as a beacon of hope in an otherwise turbulent sea.

Mr Latif’s vision is to build on RHS’ already successful reputation as a leading, multi-award winning, independent co-ed boarding and day school, known for its academic excellence, well-rounded pupil development, extensive co-curricular programme and vibrant community spirit.

 

 

Mr Latif joins RHS with a distinguished career in education, having previously served as the principal at DLD College London, based in Westminster, since 2018. Prior to his time at DLD College London, Mr Latif was Headmaster of Sexey’s School, Bruton in Somerset and Deputy Head (Academic) at Bedford School. He has also held leadership positions at St Benedict’s School, Ealing, Whitgift School and Haberdashers’ Boys’ School. In addition, Mr Latif is a board member for a number of educational organisations, including the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA), the Independent Schools’ Association (ISA), and AGBIS (Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools).

With an Honours degree in Chemistry from King’s College, London, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership, from the University of Buckingham, his arrival marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for RHS - one filled with promise, innovation and growth.

As RHS welcomes Mr Latif, the school extends its heartfelt gratitude to Simon Lockyer, who has served as the school’s Headmaster since 2016. Under his leadership, the school thrived and RHS sends its appreciation of his hard work, vision, and dedication. His legacy will continue to inspire the school community.

 

Irfan Latif commented: “Thank you to the Royal Hospital School for your warm welcome, kindness, and support. I look forward to charting a new course for RHS, during these exciting times for the school after it secured the highest GCSE results ever and the highest percentage of A* results at A-Level this summer. These accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work of our brilliant pupils and excellent staff.

 

As we enter the new academic year, I look forward to building on this outstanding success and celebrating the values of resilience, respect and integrity that form the school’s strong foundations. Together, we will strive for even greater achievements and ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to excel. It is an honour and privilege to lead such an iconic and historic school, and I look forward to working with everyone to help drive continued success at RHS.”

 

Trevor Rowell, Chair of the Board of Governors, said: “We are delighted that RHS has attracted a headmaster of such energy and talent.  The future holds challenges for all schools but is rich with opportunity – and Irfan is just the right person for the times.  We look forward with excitement to the experience and new ideas that he brings, and to a bright future for the school.”

 

RHS looks forward to embracing the changes, opportunities, and fresh perspectives that Mr Latif will bring, as the school continues to achieve academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and success in all that it strives to do.