HMC Fellows membership honours and connects outstanding individuals around the world who have made an exceptional contribution to education. These individuals exemplify the values of HMC and support its mission, enriching the association through their expertise, influence and advocacy.

While HMC Fellows are not formal members of HMC, they maintain a meaningful relationship with the organisation. This connection opens up opportunities for deep professional dialogue and influence, benefiting the HMC community across the globe and contributing to educational development.

Who Can Become an HMC Fellow?

HMC Fellows are leading educationalists who demonstrate outstanding leadership and thought within their field. They are supporters of independent education and of HMC’s work.

Fellows may include:

  • Leading educationalists around the world
  • Researchers and academics
  • Sector specialists or thought leaders with a background in education

There are no geographic restrictions—Fellows may be based anywhere in the world.

Nomination and Appointment Process

Fellows are appointed by nomination rather than a personal application and must be nominated by one of the following:

  • An HMC Committee, Working Group or Division
  • A senior colleague at the HMC Head Office

The process includes:

  • Submission of a nomination form by the proposer, including rationale, confirmation of discussion with the nominee, and declaration of any conflicts of interest
  • Submission of the nominee’s CV and a second referee contact
  • Due diligence checks conducted by the HMC Head Office
  • Review by the HMC Membership Committee, followed by final ratification by the HMC Board

Tenure and Membership Numbers

  • Tenure is typically for five years, with the option for renewal
  • There is no fixed cap on the number of HMC Fellows
  • Ongoing due diligence checks will be carried out throughout each Fellow’s tenure


Benefits of HMC Fellowship

HMC Fellowship offers a range of professional opportunities and benefits:

Professional Connections & Recognition

  • A formal association with HMC’s world-leading independent schools
  • Public recognition via a dedicated profile on the HMC website
  • Access to a global network of Fellows and educational leaders

Engagement & Involvement

  • Invitations to key HMC events, including:
    • Autumn Conference
    • Spring Conference
    • Participation in educational research, thought leadership, and selected Committee work
    • Opportunities to contribute to professional development programmes for heads and school staff

Communication & Resources

  • Regular HMC updates and weekly newsletters
  • Access to the HMC Member Zone
  • Eligibility to contribute to blogs and publications

Community & Influence

  • An invitation to the annual HMC Fellows’ Dinner
  • Networking opportunities with HMC headteachers and leadership networks
  • Use of the HMC logo and kitemark


Subscription and Event Fees

HMC Fellows do not pay an annual subscription, though standard fees apply for attendance at certain events such as the Autumn Conference. For more information about Fellows, please contact [email protected]

Membership

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Membership Overview

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