Kingswood School in Bath is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Richard Finch as our new Director of Sport, commencing in September.
Dr Finch joins Kingswood with a wealth of experience across independent education and sports performance. A graduate in Physical Education and Geography, Richard began his teaching career at Victoria College in Jersey, later taking on senior roles at St Benedict’s School in Ealing and Oundle School. He moved internationally to lead the sports programme at Harrow International School in Hong Kong, before returning to the UK to take up his most recent post as Director of Sport at Harrow School in London.
A former England hockey international at U15 to U18 level and member of the GB U21 squad, Richard also played rugby for clubs including Esher and London Scottish, as well as representing the Harlequins 7s team and the RFU charity team, The Wooden Spoon.
In addition to his hands-on coaching and teaching, Richard holds a Master’s degree in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention, a Master’s degree in Health Psychology, and a PhD in Psychology, which focused on transformational leadership coaching and its positive effect on adolescent wellbeing.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Finch said: “Kingswood has a national reputation for sporting excellence and a strong culture of warmth, ambition and inclusivity. From my very first visit, I was struck by the school’s positive atmosphere and the way sport is embedded in the wider life of the community. I’m delighted to be joining such a forward-thinking team.”
Dr Finch’s vision for sport at Kingswood is to provide a programme that educates, challenges and supports every pupil, regardless of ability. He is committed to equipping young people with a lifelong understanding of health, fitness and physical literacy, while also offering meaningful opportunities for competition and growth. For those excelling in their chosen sport, he aims to provide the right environment and pathways to help them flourish, with individualised support and close links to clubs, universities and academies.
He added: “At Kingswood, we want every pupil to enjoy taking part in sport. Fun and enjoyment are at the heart of everything we do. For some, that may mean representing the school or beyond; for others, it’s about developing confidence, wellbeing and healthy habits for life. Our aim is for every pupil to leave Kingswood with a lasting love of physical activity.”
A strong advocate for the role of sport in promoting mental and emotional wellbeing, Dr Finch emphasised that pupil welfare sits at the heart of a successful sports programme. “Wellbeing must be a lived experience in school sport – not just a concept taught in isolation. When pupils feel supported, understood and valued, they are far more likely to enjoy success – not only on the pitch but in all areas of life. We want our pupils to leave Kingswood with the confidence and skills to lead healthy, active and purposeful lives.”
Dr Finch and his family will be relocating to Bath this summer and are excited to join the school community. “We are all really looking forward to the move,” he said. “Bath is a stunning city, rich in history and culture, and we are excited to become part of the Kingswood and wider community. It feels like the perfect fit for us as a family.”
Outside of work, Richard enjoys fitness training, scuba diving and spending time outdoors with his wife and children. He remains a passionate learner, with particular interest in coaching science, psychology and the development of young athletes.
Headmaster of Kingswood School, Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown, commented: “Richard’s sporting philosophy resonates strongly with our own and I am delighted to welcome him and his family to our community. He brings elite sporting experience, academic insight and a strong pastoral focus. His leadership will be instrumental in advancing a dynamic, inclusive and inspiring sports programme that supports every pupil.”
Commenting on the departing Director of Sport, he added: “During his 37 years of dedicated service, Tim Reeman has been a cornerstone of Kingswood School, inspiring generations of pupils and staff alike. We are thrilled that he will continue to serve our community in his new role as a Kingswood Ambassador. His deep-rooted connection to the school and commitment to its values make him the ideal person to further strengthen our relationships with alumni and the broader Kingswood family.”
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