King Edward’s Witley has a new Head and Principal of the school’s charitable foundation, Bridewell Royal Hospital, in Mrs Joanna Wright – who was the unanimous choice of the board to take over the leadership of the school. Previous Head Mr John Attwater will become Principal of King’s Ely.
Mrs Wright has a passion for progressive and holistic education, and was Deputy Head at St Peter’s School, York, an HMC co-educational day and boarding school with over 570 pupils. Prior to this she was Deputy Principal Pastoral at Queenswood School, an all-girls’ independent school in Hertfordshire, a Housemistress at St Edward’s, Oxford and Assistant Director of the Stahl Theatre at Oundle School.
Given her considerable experience in academic and pastoral roles in both day and boarding schools, the appointment is a natural fit for Mrs Wright.
She said: “I feel privileged to take over the stewardship of King Edward’s, working with a dedicated team to fulfil the school’s future aspirations and ambitions – and ultimately carving out the next chapter of its illustrious history. I will continue to build on John Attwater’s successful work in steering the school to preserve its ethos, values and the founding principles originally defined at the time of its inception in 1553.
“The school is committed to ensuring that all day and boarding pupils enjoy an excellent education by creating a coherent, connected community with opportunity and inclusivity at its core; this aligns deeply with my own values.”
Mrs Justine Voisin, Treasurer and Chair of the Selection Committee, said: “In Joanna we wholeheartedly believe that we have found an educator and leader who will continue to develop King Edward’s as a school and brand, and will enhance the foundations and values on which we are built. We look forward to welcoming her and her husband, Graham, to the school.”
King Edward’s Witley: kesw.org
