Surbiton High School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Olivia Adams as Vice Principal for Educational Excellence and Innovation. Over the past five years, Mrs Adams has led the School’s high-performing Classics Department, which has achieved consistent academic excellence and growing pupil numbers.
Mrs Adams brings extensive experience in independent education, having worked in girls’ boarding schools, mixed independent day schools, and all-girls schools. A graduate in Classics from Cambridge University, she has also served as Assistant Head of Oxbridge, where she contributed to the strategic development of the School’s renowned Oxbridge Programme. Her experience as an OCR A-level examiner in Classics further demonstrates her expertise and dedication to academic excellence.
In her new role, Mrs Adams is eager to build on the School’s strong foundations of learning and teaching. She is particularly focused on fostering a culture of innovation by implementing forward-thinking strategies, integrating cutting-edge digital tools, and preparing pupils for the demands of the modern world.
Commenting on her appointment, Mrs Adams said: “I am excited to engage actively in classrooms and contribute to the exceptional teaching and learning at Surbiton High School. The School’s dedication to going above and beyond for its pupils is inspiring, and I look forward to supporting them in discovering their potential. High academic standards are essential, but educational excellence goes beyond examination success," Mrs Adams said. "It encompasses individualised learning, character development, a strong and inclusive community, and the cultivation of skills that are relevant to life beyond school."
Mrs Adams is also passionate about addressing the challenges faced by young people today, including mental health pressures, high-stakes testing, and the skills gap in employment. She believes Surbiton High School is uniquely positioned to provide a fully rounded education that equips pupils with the knowledge, skills, and character needed to thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing world.
The School is confident that Mrs Adams’s expertise and vision will further strengthen its reputation for educational excellence and innovation.