Karen Laurie appointed new Head of Guildford High School

We are delighted to announce that Karen Laurie has been appointed Head of Guildford High School from September 2023. She succeeds Fiona Boulton OBE who leaves Guildford High School after 21 years as Headmistress to continue her role as Head of Independent Schools for United Learning.  Having joined Guildford High School as a teacher of History in 2003, Karen became Deputy Head Pastoral in 2009 and Head of Senior School in September 2022. 

Karen Laurie’s appointment follows an extensive national recruitment exercise which attracted a very strong field of candidates from a range of leading schools.   

Sir Jon Coles, Chief Executive of United Learning, and Kate Richards, Chair of the GHS Governing Body, stated “Everybody within the GHS school community will be fully aware that Karen’s high standards and expectations are matched by her warmth and energy and her commitment to the wellbeing and success of every girl.  Karen has the vision, the ambition and the ideas to take GHS to further success in the future. Her leadership will ensure that the School continues to be an exciting leader in learning and wellbeing in education.” 

Karen Laurie commented, “It is an honour to be appointed as Head of Guildford High School.  Our school is a truly collaborative place where staff and pupils push the boundaries to make spectacular achievements against a backdrop of creativity, fun and laughter.  I am excited to lead the school through our rapidly changing times, inspiring students to reach their potential academically, socially and with courage and kindness.”