We are delighted to announce that Mr Phillip Makhouli joined us as the next Headmaster of Aberdour in April 2025. He joined us following the retirement of Simon Collins at Christmas. 

Phillip Makhouli was previously Headmaster at Skippers Hill Manor in Mayfield, East Sussex, a very well-regarded prep school with an almost identical ethos to Aberdour. Born and brought up in the northern Highlands of Scotland, he has a degree in electrical engineering and originally worked in the nuclear power industry. Re-training as a teacher, he taught Years 5 and 6 at primary schools in Elgin and then London, before moving to Holmewood House Prep school in Tunbridge Wells. During eight years there he was promoted from Head of Maths to Director of Teaching and Learning, gaining senior leadership experience which led to his first Headship at Skippers. 

His own philosophy “There is greatness in every child” fits our ethos perfectly. His focus is on evolution and not a revolution and taking Aberdour forward. Phillip moved in with his wife and son.

Click here to view the Head's Welcome