Trent College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Leo Dudin as its next Head, commencing in September 2026. Dr Dudin will become the 11th Head in the school’s 159-year history, bringing an exceptional blend of educational leadership, academic expertise, and industry experience.
Following Bill Penty’s decision to retire at the end of this academic year, after 12 years of distinguished service, the Board of Governors undertook a comprehensive and highly competitive recruitment process. The calibre of applicants reflected Trent’s strong reputation, and Governors are pleased to confirm Dr Dudin’s appointment as the school’s next leader.
A Leader with Broad Educational and Professional Expertise
Currently Deputy Head Academic at Oakham School and previously Head of Science at Uppingham School, Dr Dudin has held significant leadership roles spanning academic development, co-curricular provision and pastoral care.
His earlier career in the pharmaceutical industry provided valuable experience in multidisciplinary teamwork and problem-solving, including contributing to the development and launch of Promacta, a breakthrough medicine helping patients worldwide.
A passionate educator who retrained after working in industry, Dr Dudin began his teaching career at Abingdon School before moving to Uppingham and Oakham, where he has helped shape culture, learning and academic outcomes at whole school level.
Academic Journey
A former boarding pupil at King’s School Rochester, Leo’s early life was shaped by art and music, where he was an art scholar and lead violinist, and by sport where he enjoyed rugby, hockey, water polo, swimming, and sailing – experiences that continue to influence his approach to learning and leadership.
His academic path culminated in a PhD in Synthetic Organic Chemistry from the University of Bristol, where he researched a novel route to an anticancer compound. He later completed an MEd in Educational Leadership at the University of Cambridge, focusing on the impact of school partnerships and the powerful opportunities they create for young people.
Deborah Evans, Chair of Governors, commented: “This is an exciting moment for Trent College. Dr Dudin brings intellectual rigour, outstanding leadership and a genuine enthusiasm for working with pupils, staff and families. His achievements at Oakham and Uppingham – from academic excellence to his focus on future-ready skills and meaningful partnerships – speak for themselves. He has a strong appreciation of what makes Trent special and is committed to building on our values and strengths.”
Warm, Visionary Leadership
Dr Dudin is committed to fostering a joyful attitude to learning, empowering staff and pupils alike to be open-minded, ambitious and optimistic.
On his appointment, Dr Dudin said: “I am delighted to accept the position of Head of Trent College and to lead such a warm and engaging community. Ensuring the school maintains its reputation for exceptional pupil care and breadth of opportunity, in and out of the classroom, is important; Trent College is a school where pupils grow into themselves and are valued for who they are.”
“Building on the rich heritage, I feel privileged to lead the school as it enters its next chapter. Developing pupils’ confidence to think creatively, to act with courage, and to step forward with others, for others, is important. We need to nurture optimistic and ambitious young people, ready to embrace the adventures ahead of them.”
Dr Dudin’s interests include competitive sailing, the arts and supporting young people to develop confidence through challenge and adventure. Leo is married to Melissa, and they have three grown-up daughters.
In the months leading up to his arrival, there will be opportunities for pupils, parents, staff and Old Tridents to meet Dr Dudin, hear more about his vision, and learn how he will uphold Trent’s values while further strengthening our community.
We look forward to welcoming Dr Leo Dudin to Trent College in September 2026.