The search for his successor is already underway. Working with colleagues in the City of London Corporation, the school’s Board of Governors has appointed Odgers, a leading executive search firm with extensive experience in education, to support the recruitment process.
Under Alan’s leadership, CLS has seen significant change and development, including the enhancement of our facilities. Our relationship with City of London School for Girls has deepened, with the Joint Sixth Form Centre on track to open in 2028. City Junior School (CJS) opened in 2022; shared professional services have improved operational effectiveness across our family of schools (CLS, CLSG and CJS), and important curriculum innovations include the introduction of Design, Computing and Robotics.
Academic outcomes remain outstanding, and the creation of the Futures Department has helped establish CLS as a leader in preparing young people for an increasingly complex world.
Keith Bottomley, Chair of Governors, said:
“Throughout his time as Head, Alan has brought warmth, energy, optimism and a genuine sense of fun to the role. These qualities have had a lasting impact on everyone who has worked with him.
Perhaps Alan’s most important contribution has been the development of the School’s culture and values. The principles of being Kind, Aware and Ready are now deeply embedded in School life and help guide pupils, staff and governors alike. As a Board, we will ensure that remains at the heart of CLS.
Additionally, he has been careful to nurture excellence among his staff, especially in his senior team, who will build on the strong foundations he has laid long into the future.”
Alan Bird, Head of City of London School, said:
“It has been such a privilege to hold the post of Head at CLS for nearly a decade, and it is with mixed emotions that I now look ahead to a new professional challenge. Working with a brilliant team of staff, and wonderful pupils, has been, and remains, a source of enrichment and joy, and I will be very sad to say farewell next summer.”
