The UCL Academy Governing Body has appointed Dr Anton McLean as the next Principal of The UCL Academy.
Following a rigorous and competitive selection process, including extensive engagement with staff, students, governors and external experts, The UCL Academy Governing Body has appointed Dr Anton McLean as the next Principal of The UCL Academy.
Anton is currently Senior Deputy Headteacher and Head of School (Lower School) at Kingsbury High School.
He brings a wealth of experience in leading large and diverse school communities, driving school improvement, and building strong, values-led cultures. His track record at Kingsbury High School, particularly in strengthening teaching and learning and supporting staff development, makes him an outstanding match for the ambitions of UCL Academy and its partnership with UCL.
Professor Alan Thompson, UCL’s Pro-Provost (London) and Chair of Governors of The UCL Academy, said:
"Anton impressed us throughout the recruitment process with his clarity of vision, his commitment to inclusive education, and his ability to inspire confidence. His leadership qualities and breadth of experience make him exceptionally well-suited to guide The UCL Academy into its next chapter."
Professor Thompson also extended his thanks to the Academy’s Interim Principal, Andrea Pomphrey, for her exceptional service and thoughtful leadership during her tenure. Since joining in September 2024, she has led the Academy to improved levels of academic performance, initiated an Academy-wide focus on wellbeing and increased engagement with our Camden community of schools.
The partnership with The UCL Academy is managed through UCL’s London Office. Each year the London Office delivers inspiring academic enrichment activities in collaboration with the school, such as the annual Grand Challenges Poster exhibition which took place in the UCL cloisters in February 2026, an annual programme of visiting guest lectures and the UCL Academy’s annual visit to UCL each July. There are also numerous workstreams led by Ioe in partnership with the London Office, supporting school staff CPD.
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