Surbiton High School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Paula McIntyre as the new Head of the Girls’ Preparatory School, effective from September 2025.
Mrs McIntyre brings to the role a wealth of experience, a deep-rooted passion for teaching, and a strong commitment to pupil well-being. With an educational career that has spanned both teaching and leadership, Mrs McIntyre has a proven track record of fostering inclusive and aspirational learning environments.
Reflecting on her early aspirations, Mrs McIntyre shared that her path to teaching began with a childhood love of learning and a desire to ensure that every child experiences the joy of discovery in the classroom. Her motivation stems from a belief in creating a nurturing, supportive environment where pupils are empowered to thrive academically and personally.
Mrs McIntyre’s leadership approach is shaped by her experiences at several esteemed schools, including her time as Head of English at St George’s, Weybridge, where she was part of a highly supportive and collaborative team. Her ethos is grounded in respect, community, and courage—values she believes are key to helping pupils grow into confident, compassionate individuals ready to make a difference in the world.
Speaking about her new role, Mrs McIntyre said she was immediately struck by the warmth and vibrancy of Surbiton High Girls’ Preparatory School, describing it as the type of school she wished she had attended herself. Her vision is to build on the School’s many strengths while fostering a forward-looking, reflective culture of continuous improvement.
Mrs McIntyre is committed to supporting both staff and pupils in achieving their very best. She places a strong emphasis on academic rigour, high-quality teaching, and a broad, enriching curriculum that brings learning to life through experiences beyond the classroom. She is also passionate about pupil voice and aims to ensure every child at the School feels heard and valued.
In preparation for her arrival, Mrs McIntyre has already begun engaging with the School community. She looks forward to building strong relationships with families and working closely with the wider Surbiton High School team to continue delivering an outstanding educational experience.
To learn more about Mrs McIntyre’s background and aspirations for Surbiton High Girls’ Preparatory School, read the full Q&A here:
https://www.surbitonhigh.com/2025/05/08/qa-with-paula-mcintyre-head-of-surbiton-high-girls-prep-from-september-2025/