On behalf of the Board of Governors, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Craig Walker as Principal of the Royal Belfast Academical Institution. He will assume the position in August 2026, following the retirement of Principal Janet Williamson at the end of this academic year.
Dr Walker joins RBAI from Pitsford School in Northamptonshire, where he has served as Head for the past eight years. Prior to this, he spent 18 years at Loughborough Grammar School, progressing to the role of Deputy Headmaster. He holds a First-Class Honours degree in History from the University of Glasgow and a Doctorate from Balliol College, Oxford.
Dr Walker said he was honoured to be selected as the next Principal of RBAI. He expressed his commitment to building upon the achievements of Janet Williamson and to working collaboratively with the School’s staff, Board of Governors, parent community, and alumni. He also reflected on RBAI’s identity as a multicultural, integrated grammar school dedicated to equipping young men to take their place in society.
Dr Walker highlighted the School’s unique position in the heart of Belfast for over 200 years and the exciting plans now under way to redevelop the South Wing, to provide modern and fit for purpose facilities.
Describing RBAI as an ambitious and distinguished school with a longstanding educational mission, Dr Walker conveyed his enthusiasm for joining the Inst community.
We extend our best wishes to Dr Walker in his new role and look forward to introducing him to you later in 2026.
Michael Howard BSc FCA
Chairman, Board of Governors