Simpson clearly saw the potential that such a brief provided. On 2 June 1920, Rendcomb College opened with twelve boys, Simpson at the helm and Noel Wills as Chair of Governors. The two men shaped the path of the School for a little over seven years and their relationship was founded on mutual respect and affection. In 1924, the Founder wrote an illuminating piece for The English Review which gives a fascinating insight into those early years and his progressive educational vision. ‘Remembering what he wanted us to be – his pride in what has been done well, his indulgence for what has been done less well – we must go forward, humbly, but confidently, in the work of making his vision a reality.’ James Herbert Simpson, founding Headmaster of Rendcomb College  Noel Wills died in the autumn of 1927