The Governors are pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Wilson as Headmistress from January 2021.
A gifted educationalist and sportswoman, Sarah is passionate about all girls’ education and about boarding, having spent 10 years in a boarding school. She is enthusiastic about the holistic and broad education that Heathfield offers and understands the importance of a school where everyone knows one another.
With a first-class degree from Brunel University in Secondary Education with Geography and Physical Education, Sarah was awarded the Bergman Osterberg award, a national award in recognition of her dissertation, as well as the Prydderch Williams Prize for Education by her university. Sarah also has an MA in Educational Leadership and Management and will soon be completing an Executive Leadership Programme from the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. She comes to Heathfield with a wealth of leadership experience in girls’ schools: she is currently Senior Deputy Head at Cranford House School, Oxfordshire, and was previously Director of Sport at St Helen and St Katharine, Abingdon. Sarah is also Vice Chair of the GSA Sports and Wellness Committee.
Sarah is a keen sportswoman and was previously a competitive gymnast at national level and enjoys walking, cycling, golf and tennis. As a flautist, Sarah has played in various orchestras and attends as many concerts as she can, whether they be performed by pupils at school, local groups, or professional musicians. Sarah describes herself as a lifelong learner and thoroughly enjoys supporting her two teenage children in their endeavours.
Of her appointment, she says “I am thrilled to have been appointed as the next Headmistress of Heathfield. Having been aware of the school’s excellent reputation, I was further drawn by the caring, warm, unique character of the school and the commitment to a genuinely rounded, opportunity rich educational experience that allows every girl to be an individual. It is clear to me that Heathfield is a very special place and I cannot wait to work with the girls, parents, staff and governors.”
Mr Tom Cross Brown, Chair of Governors said, “I’m delighted that we have such an inspiring Headmistress joining Heathfield. Sarah impressed all of us with her understanding of the unique education we offer at Heathfield as well as her vision for the school. She is looking forward enormously to getting to know everyone in the community and joining the school in January 2021.”
