Northampton High School GDST is pleased to welcome our new Head of Junior School, Mrs Lucy Stawt. With extensive experience in the independent school sector, and a clear commitment to the benefits of a girls-first environment, Mrs Stawt brings a warm, pupil-focused approach to her new role. Her leadership will be integral to our school’s mission and our ethos of being Made for Girls.
Mrs Stawt’s journey into education was born from a genuine passion for seeing children flourish. Before embarking on a career in teaching, she worked in investment banking administration in London. The catalyst for her change in direction came during a weekly volunteer session reading with children at an inner-city school – an experience she loved so much that it inspired her to pursue a career in the education sector.
After completing a BA in Primary Education with a specialism in Mathematics, Mrs Stawt cultivated her expertise in a variety of independent school settings. This path was enriched by running her own tutoring business, an experience that deepened her appreciation for crafting a customised curriculum for each child. She identifies the most rewarding part of her role as “being able to have that time to form those individual relationships with children.”
Embracing ‘Made for Girls’
Joining Northampton High School has affirmed Mrs Stawt’s long-held interest in the benefits of a girls-first environment.
“Girls, I believe, thrive from a collaborative approach to learning,” she shares. “It’s this environment where there are no stereotypes, it’s limitless. They can access all sorts of subjects from Early Years upwards. We encourage our girls to be fearless and 10% braver in all that they do.”
This conviction extends to her belief in our all-through model, which she describes as a “seamless education.” Speaking on the benefit of this system, Mrs Stawt notes,
“We know our girls and they know us. We know their potential, we can nurture them, we can coach them, we can help them to become the best versions of themselves.”
From day one, Mrs Stawt’s priority is to immerse herself in the school community. Her approach is one of presence, openness, and active listening, ensuring she connects with pupils, parents, and staff alike.
“I will be at the gate every morning to welcome pupils and parents, and I’ll be popping into classrooms every day,” she says. “But more importantly than anything else, I will be here to listen. This school is a community of experts, from the girls to the parents to the staff, and I invite them to come and talk to me and share their invaluable knowledge.”
While upholding academic excellence, Mrs Stawt is particularly passionate about further developing our cocurricular provision, ensuring every girl benefits from a holistic and enriching school experience.
We are thrilled to welcome Lucy Stawt to our community and look forward to seeing the Junior School continue to flourish under her leadership.