In this week’s Bulletin, we share the reflections of our new Headteacher, Mrs Kate Ingamells-Bland, as she completes her first month leading The Grange School. In her message, she looks back on the experiences that have inspired her so far and outlines her vision for the future – one that honours our traditions, strengthens our sense of Community, and reaffirms our commitment to holistic education and excellence.
Dear Grange Community,
As I complete my first month as Headteacher of The Grange School, I wanted to take a moment to pause and write to all of you. As I write these lines, I am representing our School at the Latin American Heads Conference (LAHC), in São Paulo which this year focuses on “Education for a Better World.” This experience -alongside recent events such as Old Grangonian Day and the Steeplechase- has been an inspiring reminder of the traditions, values, and spirit of service that continue to define The Grange School.
Having joined The Grange in February 2022 as Head of Upper Prep, and later serving as Head of Senior School, I have had the privilege of understanding our School from within – its people, its culture, and its ethos. Now, stepping into this new position of leadership, I feel both honoured and energised to continue guiding a community that combines academic excellence, holistic education, and a strong moral foundation – always remaining faithful to the vision of our founder, Mr John A S Jackson:
“We want to form pupils that are trustworthy and will be useful to society.”
This founding principle lies at the heart of everything we do. It inspires our educational mission and shapes our approach – one that values the balanced development of mind, body, and character. Our pupils are encouraged to live by the timeless Grangonian values of Fair Play, All Rounder, Spirit of Service, Joy of Learning, Team Spirit, and Good Manners. These principles are not only taught but lived – preparing our young people to contribute positively to both the national and global Community.
Before arriving at The Grange, I served as Head of Prep School and Vice-Principal at Northfields International School in Mauritius, where I had also been Director of Sports and Extra-Murals. My career includes roles such as Head of Physical Education and Head of Years 10 and 11 at The Mombasa Academy in Kenya, and Teacher of Physical Education in the United Kingdom. Earlier in my career, I taught English in Les Sables d’Olonne, France. I hold a degree in Sport and Human Movement Studies and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Over the past twenty-seven years, I have built my leadership around pastoral care, academic quality, and holistic formation – believing that education should nurture not only intellect, but also empathy, creativity, and purpose.
At the core of my vision is the belief that Pastoral Care and Wellbeing are fundamental pillars of a successful school Community. A safe, inclusive, and caring environment is essential for pupils to flourish both academically and personally. When children feel seen, supported, and valued, they are more open to learning, collaboration, and self-discovery. At The Grange, wellbeing is not an addition to education – it is its foundation. It means cultivating balance, emotional resilience, respect for others, and a sense of belonging, so that every pupil can reach their full potential as a confident, compassionate individual who contributes positively to society.
I would like to express my gratitude to the John Jackson Educational Foundation and the School Board of Governors for their trust, and to reaffirm my commitment to leading with integrity, collaboration, and a clear sense of purpose. Together with our dedicated Staff and supportive families, we will continue to strengthen a legacy of excellence recognised internationally through our BSO accreditation and our distinction in the Spears Index and Carfax Index.
This year, I will also continue as Head of Senior School, ahead of welcoming Mr Richard Quantrill, who will take up that role in February 2026. This transition provides us with an important opportunity to ensure unity, coherence, and shared purpose across all sections of our School – from our youngest pupils in Lower Prep to those preparing to graduate from Senior School.
Looking ahead, our vision is guided by our Institutional Educational Project (PEI 2025) and our Strategic Development Plan, which focus on fostering the Grangonian Profile, strengthening wellbeing and collaboration, promoting teaching excellence, and embracing inclusion and digital literacy as essential to lifelong learning. These goals align with our motto, Nunquam Non Paratus – Always Ready – a reminder of the resolve and adaptability we seek to inspire in every pupil.
Before I finish, I would like to draw your attention to some important dates in our School calendar:
- Teachers’ Day – Friday, 17th October
- The GRAF Evening – Wednesday, 22nd October
- Family Day – Saturday, 25th October
- Remembrance Day – Tuesday, 11th November
- Graduation Ceremony – Friday, 5th December
- Upper Prep Prize Giving Ceremony – Monday, 15th December
- Senior Prize Giving Ceremony – Tuesday, 16th December
As we move forward, I invite each and every one of you to take part in our shared mission – because our pupils are, and must always remain, at the centre of everything we do. Every member of this Community – teachers, administrative staff, assistants, those who provide meals and services, the Parents and Guardians Association, the Senior Leadership Team, the School Board, and our Old Grangonians — plays an essential role in shaping the character, values, and future of our pupils. Together, we form the ecosystem that nurtures their growth and allows them to flourish.
This week, as we celebrate Teachers’ Day, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our teachers for their dedication, passion, and commitment to the holistic development of our pupils. Your impact goes far beyond the classroom.
I will give the very best of myself in the years to come to ensure that The Grange School continues to grow, honour its traditions, and lead with excellence.
Warm regards,
Kate Ingamells-Bland
Headteacher
