Horris Hill School appoints new head ahead of co-educational change

A North Hampshire prep school has found its new headteacher ahead of its conversion from a single-sex institution to a co-educational one.

Rob Stewart, selected for his “progressive and dynamic approach to teaching and learning”, will be the new head of Horris Hill School this September.

Mr Stewart has joined Horris Hill from The Oratory Prep School (OPS) in Goring Heath where he spent six years as head.

Before he worked at OPS, he spent more than a decade at Eton, latterly as a housemaster.

Mr Stewart said: “I’m poised with excited anticipation for this new era, in both the story of Horris Hill and my career.

“Horris Hill is simply an incredibly creative and enriching place to learn, which is what drew me to apply for the position as head.”

“The setting, in rolling countryside and 65 acres of idyllic grounds perfect for outdoor learning and sporting enjoyment, is of course a major pull too – but what I am most looking forward to is bringing my experience of co-educational and early years introduction to the school as it navigates some monumental changes, cementing its future as one of the most sought-after prep schools in the country.”

From September, the school will be launching co-education for the first time in its 134-year history.

Girls and boys aged two upwards will be able to enter the school’s brand new state-of-the-art and custom-built 50 week nursery, as well as into reception, and throughout the whole school until they turn 13.

Mr Stewart also said: “While there are benefits to single-sex education, I’m a firm believer that to prepare all children for the world we live in it is crucial they are skilled in interacting with each other, sharing ideas and overcoming problem-solving challenges from the earliest opportunity, which is our vision for Horris Hill.”

John Forsyth, chief executive of ForFar Education, which owns and runs Horris Hill, said: “We were very impressed with Rob’s investment in and passion for pupil-led learning and his commitment to really broadening the skill set of children in the schools he has worked at.

“His background at some of the country’s most highly regarded educational institutions such as Eton and Winchester means that he is perfectly placed to direct the school’s academic and sporting achievements but also instils trust in and respect for traditions we hold in high esteem at Horris Hill.

“Rob brings so much to the curriculum but also, and just as importantly, to the pastoral character of the school.

“He has a wealth of experience in systems which are adept at tracking the emotional and behavioural development and well-being of students – a crucial ingredient in the make-up of a happy, well-adjusted and confident study body.”

As well an ensuring the school’s warm welcome to female pupils, Mr Stewart is also focused on ensuring communication pathways between parents, pupils and staff will be strong and clear.

He said: “It’s crucial that in any school, the mechanisms for open discussions, on any topic, between parents and school leaders, are straight-forward and honest.

“I believe any challenges can be resolved with direct, timely discussion which is an approach I’ll be bringing to the fore as I settle into my new role.

“There is so much to be excited about as we prepare for the new school term, particularly the ever-evolving opportunities in the curriculum for cross departmental collaboration such as between STEM subjects, English and drama, for example.

“I’m delighted to be joining the Horris Hill family at such a pivotal moment in its history and look forward to meeting all of our parents and children in person as we start the new academic year.”