Martin Walker appointed as next Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group

Martin Walker will take over from Richard Backhouse as Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group in April 2026.

We are delighted to announce that Martin Walker has been appointed as the next Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group from April 2026.

Leading recruitment consultants Saxton Bampfylde were engaged, and following a rigorous interview process the governors were unanimous that Martin was the stand-out candidate. He combines a love for education with a pupil-centred vision and is committed to delivering an excellent holistic education for every pupil in the Schools Group.

Martin served as Headteacher of Berkhamsted Sixth from 2017-2024 and is currently in the position of Vice Principal. He has led a number of transformational initiatives during his time at Berkhamsted, including the restructure of the Sixth Form pastoral care system, the school’s approach to becoming smartphone-free, the introduction of an Oxbridge Universities Consultant and the appointment of a School Psychologist.

Martin will take over from Richard Backhouse, who has done an outstanding job as Principal over the last ten years. Richard leaves a legacy of exceptional leadership, particularly in developing a pipeline of leaders fulfilling senior roles across Berkhamsted Schools Group and other schools. Although Richard is a hard act to follow, the governors and pupils who interviewed Martin felt that the close alignment of his personal values with the school’s values will make him an outstanding leader for the Group.