26.03.26

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We are delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Sophie Baber as the new Head of Windlesham House, effective 1 September. Sophie is an accomplished and highly experienced Headteacher, having previously led three independent schools: Brookham, the thriving Pre-Prep at Highfield in Hampshire, Salisbury Cathedral School and, most recently, Longacre School in Surrey. Her leadership across these diverse and successful settings reflects her depth of experience, educational expertise and unwavering commitment to building environments in which children flourish.

Sophie is an educator and leader of exceptional warmth, energy, and vision, with a distinguished record of creating school environments in which all pupils thrive. Educated at Millfield School in Somerset, she went on to earn a degree in Theatre Studies followed by postgraduate qualifications in Education and Educational Psychology.

Her teaching career spans a rich variety of contexts, including prep-level roles at Marlborough College Malaysia and The Tanglin Trust School in Singapore, as well as experience in the UK state primary sector as a SENDCo. Across every setting, Sophie has demonstrated a deep commitment to inclusive practice, pupil wellbeing and academic excellence.

Sophie has also served as a Governor of Hoe Bridge Prep School, contributing her expertise in teaching, learning and pastoral care to the strategic development of the school.

Outside of her professional life, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, friends and dogs, and embraces the outdoors whenever possible. She is a qualified netball umpire, has completed the London Marathon and successfully undertook the South Downs Challenge, all in support of charitable causes. Her energy, determination, and commitment to community are reflected not only in her work but in all aspects of her life.

Throughout the appointment process, Sophie has become increasingly inspired by the unique character and enduring appeal of Windlesham House, a school she has known and admired for many years. Her recent visits, meeting staff, pupils, governors and some parents, were particularly influential, affirming her desire to join the community even in the face of significant competition for her leadership. Having been simultaneously offered the headship of another prestigious prep school, it was Windlesham’s ethos, values and sense of community that resonated strongly with Sophie and convinced her that this was the right place to lead.

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