Alexandra Haydon

Alexandra Haydon has been appointed to succeed Lucy Elphinstone as the next head of Francis Holland School, Sloane Square in London from January next year.

Francis Holland School, Sloane Square is an independent school for girls aged from four to 18 with a senior school and junior school.

Haydon is currently deputy head, academic at independent co-educational Millfield in Somerset. Before joining Millfield in 2019, Haydon spent five years at St Mary’s Calne in Wiltshire where she was head of science and latterly senior teacher. Prior to that she worked in a variety of other schools having begun her career at Graveney School in South London.

Haydon has a degree from Durham University and a PCGE and master’s in teaching and learning from Oxford University. She is currently working towards a doctorate in education at Bath.

Haydon said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed as the new head of Francis Holland, Sloane Square. During my visit to the school I was struck by the warmth of the girls, junior and senior, and the passion and commitment of the staff. I am committed to upholding the school’s tradition of excellence in education and fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where all girls can thrive. I look forward to working with staff, students, parents and alumnae to continue to build on the school’s strong foundations and prepare the Francis Holland girls for success in an ever-changing world.”

The chairman of the council for Francis Holland Schools Trust, Patrick Sherrington, said: “The governing body is very excited about Alexandra’s appointment and we look forward to working with her in moving the school forward, building on the legacy of the past, to ensure that Francis Holland Sloane Square continues to be a beacon of light for girls’ education in London and beyond.”

Elphinstone, who has been headmistress since September 2012, will leave Francis Holland at the end of this academic year and Rob Cawley, deputy head academic, has been appointed as interim head for the autumn term.