David Boddy was at first a reluctant head master. He came to the role after a life in journalism, politics, business and charity work. His passion for more than 30 years has been philosophy and meditation. He has lectured widely on Advaita Vedanta, a key source of Eastern wisdom, and Platonic thought, both of which he regards as practical inspirations in leadership and daily life. St James Senior Boys School is based in Ashford, Surrey. Meditation and philosophy are core aspects of the curriculum and school life. He is a Trustee of the Education Renaissance Trust and Founder of the Lucca Leadership organisation, a world-wide charity for young people teaching community leadership skills. He is married with three sons, six grandchildren (so far) and a belief that teaching, and headship is a God-calling. In 2012 he was inaugurated Chairman of the Society of Heads.