Brackenfield School Celebrates Joe Masterson's Legacy and Welcomes Experienced Interim Head

During his tenure, Mr. Masterson has overseen a period of growth, development and success, while remaining steadfast in his commitment to nurturing confident, well-rounded young people. Under his leadership, Brackenfield has continued to flourish as one of Harrogate's leading independent preparatory schools, delivering an education that places equal emphasis on academic achievement, personal development and emotional wellbeing.

Widely respected by pupils, colleagues and families alike, Mr. Masterson has played a pivotal role in strengthening the school's culture and values, creating an environment in which children are encouraged to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. As Brackenfield celebrates its landmark 50th anniversary year, he leaves the school well positioned for continued success in the decades ahead.

Mr. Joe Masterson, Headmaster of Brackenfield School, said:

"After six wonderful years leading Brackenfield School, the time has come for me to embark on a new challenge. I do so with immense pride in all that we have achieved together as a school community.

"I would like to thank our pupils, families and staff for their unwavering support throughout my time as Headmaster. Being part of such a warm, caring and ambitious community has been a genuine privilege.

"I am delighted to be handing over the reins to Mr. Philip Soutar, whose extensive experience and commitment to independent education make him ideally placed to lead Brackenfield through its next chapter."

As Brackenfield enters its 50th year, the school is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Philip Soutar as Interim Head from September 2026.

A highly respected figure within independent education, Mr. Soutar brings more than 30 years of teaching and leadership experience to the role, including 20 years serving as a Prep School Head. His career has included senior leadership positions at a number of leading independent schools, including several years as Head of Prep at Ashville College in Harrogate.

In addition to his extensive school leadership experience, Mr. Soutar served as National Chair of the Independent Schools Association (ISA) during the organisation's 145th anniversary year and currently serves as Vice Chair of the ISA.

Mr. Philip Soutar said:

"I am thrilled to be joining the Brackenfield community during such a special milestone year and would like to thank Joe for his warm welcome and outstanding leadership."

"Brackenfield has a well-deserved reputation for nurturing happy, confident and successful young people, and I am excited to build upon the excellent foundations already in place."

"I look forward to working closely with staff, pupils and families and to becoming part of a community that clearly cares deeply about every child's educational journey. Brackenfield's position as a leading independent prep school in Harrogate holds particular appeal, and I am passionate about supporting pupils as they discover their strengths, develop their character and prepare for the next stage of their education."

Mr. John Forsyth, CEO of Forfar Education, said:

"Joe has made an exceptional contribution to Brackenfield School over the past six years. His leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to the pupils have helped shape the school into the thriving and successful community it is today."

"We are immensely grateful for everything he has achieved and wish him every success in the future."

"We are equally delighted to welcome Phil Soutar as Interim Head. His extensive leadership experience, educational expertise and deep understanding of the independent sector make him ideally placed to build on Brackenfield's many successes and lead the school confidently into its next chapter."

Mr. Masterson and Mr. Soutar will work closely together throughout the Autumn Term to ensure a seamless transition, providing continuity for pupils, staff and families as Brackenfield continues to build on its strong foundations and look confidently towards the future.