Mr Hawker is currently the Deputy Head of Salisbury Cathedral School, where he oversees the day-to-day operation of the school and is the Academic Head. Hailing originally from Solihull, Mr Hawker read music at Birmingham University before undertaking a masters research degree in musicology. He began his career in Cornwall at Bosvigo School, and after qualifying as a teacher worked as a Year 3 and 4 class teacher at Tywardreath School before moving, in 2010, to Polwhele House School in Truro as Deputy Head. Upon his move to Salisbury in 2016, Mr Hawker also left his part-time role as a Tenor Choral Lay Clark at Truro Cathedral, a position he had held for 13 years.
Married to Gemma and with two young children, Archie and Isabelle, Mr Hawker is a keen sportsman and is a FA coach, and partakes in long-distance running, and completed the London Marathon in 2009. He is passionate about ensuring that King’s St Alban’s is run as a well-rounded prep school, able to provide both academic rigour as well as a broad range of opportunities for all. Highly experienced in driving excellence in teaching and learning as well as overseeing exceptional pastoral care for his pupils at Salisbury Cathedral School, Mr Hawker brings a wealth of experience that will serve the pupils, parents, and staff of King’s St Alban’s superbly. Furthermore, his extensive experience of working in a cathedral school will be a great support to the choristers and their families.
Reflecting on the appointment Gareth Doodes, the Foundation Headmaster, explained ‘We had an exceptional field for the position. The current Deputy Head of King’s St Alban’s was involved throughout the process, and the shortlist interviews consisted of many parts, including most importantly a pupil panel of Year 5 pupils. We are so looking forward to welcoming Mr Hawker and his family to King’s. He has made a superb impression on all who met him, impressed everyone with his kindness, ambition, and enthusiasm, and I know that the community will welcome him warmly. This is an exciting time for our whole Foundation community.’
Mr Hawker was delighted to accept the offer of leading King’s St Alban’s. ‘It is a great privilege to be asked to lead King’s St Alban’s Prep School through the next stage of its development and a real joy to become part of The King’s School, Worcester Foundation. Throughout the interview process I was struck by the warmth and generosity of the whole community here and I have been truly inspired by both its rich history and ambitious outlook. My family and I are very much looking forward to becoming part of this very special school here at King’s.’