John Hind grew up in north Nottinghamshire where he attended the Manor Comprehensive School before studying History at Downing College, Cambridge. Completing his PGCE there in 1981 he spent four years at Exeter School before joining Durham School as second in the history department in 1986. Over the next eleven years he became Head of History and Director of Studies as well as coaching sport and serving in the CCF. He also completed a part time MEd degree and PhD. In 1996 he and Ginny held their wedding reception in Big School before moving to Surrey when John became Deputy Head of Kingston Grammar School. The family returned to the North East with their two young daughters when John was appointed Principal of Dame Allan’s Schools in 2004. Retiring from that post in 2020, John now works part time as Director of Education and Leadership for the Rank Foundation, a role which allows him time to serve as a trustee for a local academy trust and also to pursue his interest in campanology.