Performing arts school recruits violinist as incoming principal

Hertfordshire’s Tring Park School for the Performing Arts has named former professional violinist and conductor ANDREW MCGARVA as principal.

McGarva is to join the vocational school in January next year, arriving from the independent Morrison’s Academy in Scotland, where he has been rector since August 2021.

A graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, his music career has included highlights like conducting Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra and collaborations with the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.

He succeeds SIMON LARTER-EVANS, who left Tring Park, a day and boarding school for pupils aged seven to 19, last term.

McGarva’s experience spans boarding, day, and international schools in the UK and Japan, and has twice held director of music roles.

He said he was “delighted” to lead a school with an “exceptional national and international reputation”.

“Tring Park’s commitment to a truly integrated academic and vocational education brings together everything I value about education,” McGarva said.

“It is a privilege to take on the role of principal, and I very much look forward to working with students, staff, families, and governors to build on the school’s remarkable strengths and to lead the next chapter of its story.”

MARK HEWITT, chair of governors, added: “After working hard to find the right fit my fellow governors and I are excited by the prospect of Andrew joining us at Tring Park School.

“We are confident that he will be a strong and empathetic leader who will help drive the school forward, working with and inspiring our excellent academic, vocational, and support staff teams.”