John Carrington (TS, 1969-2001)

We are sorry to share the sad news that former Head of English, Head of Humanities and Deputy Head, John Carrington passed away on Saturday 31st May 2025.

When John arrived at Taunton School in 1969 as Head of English, few could have foreseen the indelible mark he would leave over the following three decades. He not only witnessed immense transformation within the institution, from a traditionalist, all-male, predominantly boarding school to a modern, cosmopolitan, co-educational environment, but played an integral role in shaping many of those changes.

A Cambridge graduate, John’s academic brilliance was matched by his gift for teaching and it is for his expertise in the classroom that many OTs will best remember him. His ability to present ideas and dissect knowledge in a clear, meaningful and fascinating way struck a chord as much with those struggling towards 0-Level as with the Oxbridge scholarship class. For many years John ran General Studies for the Sixth Form and he was pleased to continue his interest in psychology by offering a course on it.

Beyond the classroom, drama was John’s passion. As producer of the annual school play, he brought masterful productions to life, such as The Crucible and The Caucasian Chalk Circle. His own acting talents shone both on the school stage and with local theatre groups.

John’s leadership meant he progressed rapidly, becoming Head of Humanities and, in 1985, Deputy Head, where he presided over the Common Room with diplomacy and sensitivity. Outside the School, John was a chief examiner for 0-Level, GCSE and for A-Level, and a member of several school inspection teams for HMC.

As Housemaster of Marshall for 17 years, John and his wife, Ann, cared for countless boys who will forever remember his benevolence. In addition to his other duties, John acted as chairman of the Burke Debating Society and his dedication to sport saw him running school fencing and assisting with League Cricket. The umpiring of this could test the patience of a saint, as wide followed wide when the weakest players bowled their compulsory over. But John’s even approach was equal to it all.

Since leaving the School, John remained closely connected to both staff and Old Tauntonians. He and Ann generously supported the Foundation, choosing to donate to Assisted Places for over twenty years. John and Ann were frequent visitors to the school, attending numerous events including the momentous opening of the Carrington Library in 2022, an occasion marked by the presence of many OTs, a true testament to his enduring impact.

John’s absence will be deeply felt across the Taunton School community. He was more than a colleague or teacher; he was a friend to staff, pupils and OTs alike. The school will be holding a Memorial Service in his honour, with details to follow.

If you wish to send a note to Ann you are most welcome to send it to the Foundation and Alumni Office and we can forward all messages on.