Can you share some career highlights and how your experiences have shaped your approach?
I knew I wanted to be a teacher from the age of 17, making my decisions at university very straightforward. My most formative years professionally were at The Dragon School in Oxford, where I spent seven happy years learning that we don’t need to impose ceilings on what children can achieve. I probably learnt the most about leadership during my 11 years as Head at Chafyn Grove, Salisbury, and becoming Chairman of the Independent Association of Prep Schools in 2013 was a particularly special moment.

As Marlborough House and Vinehall
come together this September, how do you
see this merger shaping the future of these
two historic prep schools?
Two wonderful schools are coming together in an ambitious new chapter. The merger offers confidence and security for Marlborough House Vinehall at this challenging time and allows us to continue aiming high, while providing a happy and varied education for the children in the beautiful 50-acre Vinehall School site near Robertsbridge. 300 boys and girls from 2 to 13 years old means vibrant sports teams and strength in depth across the performing arts, while the staff room will be a sought-after place for teachers eager to be part of an exciting new venture.

What can families and pupils look forward to at Marlborough House Vinehall?
Gone are the days when children should be treated as one cohesive bunch – the individual approach is the Holy Grail for prep school children and their parents. They can follow their individual passions – in our indoor pool, in our dance studio, coding in the IT suite and the large theatre provides a fantastic platform for performances and public speaking – knowing that the teachers are trying to find the best way to unlock each child’s talents.

Marlborough House Vinehall will soon join
the Repton Family of Schools. What does
this affiliation mean for MHV?
In Repton we have a tried and tested partner, experienced in supporting schools, while allowing them their individuality. Sharing best practice will be helpful, and there will also be wonderful global opportunities as we link with the Repton schools around the world. I am particularly excited about the digital opportunities.

Stepping into your new role as Head, what are some of the key changes or initiatives you’re hoping to introduce?
We want to support the modern working parent by providing flexibility where possible. We’re extending our 50 week a year provision from the Nursery right up to the 13 year olds, through a partnership with a holiday camp company.

We want the parents to play a crucial part in their child’s education by welcoming them into the school and communicating with them in a transparent and honest manner.

How do you like to spend your time outside
your role in school?
I might not look like it, but I’m actually an ultra-runner, so when I can I run stupidly long distances. It gives me time to think or switch off, depending on what’s needed. In the past I’ve completed the Marathon Des Sables, Hadrian’s Wall in a day and most recently the London to Brighton run.

To find out more about Marlborough House Vinehall visit mhvschool.co.uk