Taunton School, one of the South West’s premier independent schools, has announced the appointment of Jennifer Agnew as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective April 2026. Ms. Agnew brings a distinguished background in law, governance, and operational management, acquired over a diverse and accomplished career.
Prior to joining Taunton School, Jennifer served as Bursar and Clerk to the Governors at Kimbolton School in Cambridgeshire. She has also held the position of Head of Legal and Governance at England and Great Britain Hockey. Her 16-year tenure in the British Army included roles as a legal adviser and prosecutor, where she handled complex criminal and non-criminal matters and led significant strategic change initiatives within the UK and NATO frameworks.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Laws with German from the University of Dundee and a Master of Laws in Sports Law and Practice from De Montfort University, complemented by several postgraduate qualifications in law, leadership, and management.
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A passionate sportswoman, Jennifer has played hockey at club, regional, and Army levels. She is also a Level 1 England Hockey coach and a qualified Swim England J1 official.
In her new role as COO, Jennifer will be responsible for overseeing all operational services at Taunton School, managing a dedicated team of over 300 staff members. Her appointment comes at an exciting time, as the 178-year-old school prepares to launch a new 140-bed boarding facility designed to bring together students from more than 60 countries on a single vibrant campus.
Jennifer will be relocating to Somerset with her husband, Rob, and their two sons, Thomas and Henry.