Oxford private school’s new plans as headteacher steps down

Last month it was announced that Helen Pike has decided to step down as master of Magdalen College School in east Oxford at the end of the 2026/27 academic year.

She has been master at the school for the past 11 years, was the first female master at MCS, and guided the board of governors to one of the most significant decisions in the school’s history – to become fully co-educational from 2027.

READ MORE: Oxford private school headteacher to leave after 11 years

While there has been a co-educational sixth form at the school for 15 years, the school has announced it will become fully co-educational over the coming decade.

MCS is one of the top performing schools in the country, ranking in the top 20 independent secondary schools in The Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2026.

Helen Pike, Master at Magdalen College School (Image: MCS/Andrew Walmsley)

Ms Pike said earlier she was looking forward to a new phase in her professional life, “one that builds on all that I have enjoyed and achieved in my career during the past 30 years”.

As the headteacher considers a career move, governors at the school have started the recruitment process to find the right replacement.

Chairman of the board of governors Bob Price said in a letter to parents: “Helen will not be handing over the reins until August next year, which will allow a substantial and smooth period of transition before she moves on to pursue the next stage in a stellar career.

“There will be many opportunities over the coming year to celebrate Helen’s achievements, and to thank her fully for all she has done for MCS.

“The process of recruiting a new Master is already under way, and is being led by a panel of governors that includes two experienced former Heads and three other long serving governors.

“We are being supported by a leading recruitment firm, Odgers, which has worked for many years with a wide range of leading independent schools on similar senior appointments.

“I will of course keep you in touch with progress and hope to be in a position to provide an update by the end of the academic year.”

Pupils at Magdalen College School (Image: MCS/Andrew Walmsley)

During Ms Pike’s tenure, MCS has been recognised as a top 20 independent school and south east school of the year by the Sunday Times and won independent school of the year for social mobility.

As part of the school’s expansion plans, MCS is preparing to build a new science, library and partnerships building.

A spokeswoman said earlier the new building will offer an exciting opportunity to reimagine the senior school site as staff look ahead to full co-education.