In September, for the start of the next academic year, Ms Cathy Ellott will be joining the SCHS family as she takes up her new post as Head of Streatham & Clapham High, leaving her distinguished tenure at St Mary’s Ascot where she is currently Senior Deputy Head, responsible for overseeing the academic and co-curricular education, pastoral care and boarding. She was previously Pastoral Deputy Head at St Mary’s School Ascot and before that Pastoral Director of Sixth Form at Headington School for Girls, Oxford.

Ms Ellott has a degree in English Language and Literature from Oxford University and holds an MA with Distinction in National and International Literatures in English from the University of London.

GDST CEO, Cheryl Giovannoni comments: Ms Ellott is a true champion of girls’ education. We were particularly taken with the contagious enthusiasm Ms Ellott showed for Streatham & Clapham High’s ethos of being not a factory, but a family school, along with her belief in the importance of visible, inspiring and creative leadership.

Ms Giovannoni notes that she and the GDST: were impressed by Ms Ellot’s: commitment to diversity and inclusion, high academic standards and the value of a rich academic and co-curricular programme. Her dynamism, creativity and energy will make her a fitting Head for this fine school in the GDST family.

Although currently in her busy role at St Mary’s, Ms Ellott will be visiting the school shortly to meet pupils and staff in preparation for her new role with us.  We look forward to welcoming Ms Ellott for several visits over the coming months.

‘I’m honoured and excited to be joining Streatham & Clapham in September.’

Ms Cathy Ellott,
Head designate

Ms Ellott says, I am thrilled to be joining Streatham & Clapham High School, to lead a school of such vibrancy, ambition and warmth where every girl is celebrated for her triumphs and supported in her challenges. It is a school that enriches within and beyond the curriculum, unearthing hidden treasures and the potential in every girl, and I feel honoured to be part of the school’s very exciting future.

Mrs Giovonnoni added, I would also like to thank Mrs Tobias and Mr Hinton for leading the school during this period, with the support of the Senior Leadership Team. Streatham & Clapham High will remain in their very capable hands until Ms Ellott joins the school in September 2023.