St Mary’s Announces Retirement of Long-Serving Chair of Governors, Derek Wilson

After more than three decades of dedicated service to St Mary’s School, including 19 years as Chair of Governors, Derek Wilson will retire from the Board of Governors in March 2027.

Derek’s contribution to St Mary’s has been exceptional. Over many years, he has devoted an extraordinary amount of time, care and energy to supporting the school community and helping guide St Mary’s through periods of growth, development and continued success. His leadership, wisdom and steadfast commitment to the school have earned him the respect and gratitude of governors, staff, pupils, parents and alumnae alike.

The Board of Governors has paid tribute to Derek’s lasting impact on the school, recognising his sound judgement, generosity of spirit and unwavering focus on what is best for St Mary’s and its pupils.

On behalf of the entire St Mary’s community, the Governors would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Derek for his longstanding and selfless service. His legacy will endure not only in the strength and reputation of the school today, but also in the many lives he has helped shape throughout his years of leadership.

While Derek will be greatly missed by those who have worked alongside him, the school is pleased that he will maintain a continued connection with St Mary’s in the future.

As an all-through school for girls aged 3 to 18, St Mary’s remains deeply committed to educational excellence and preparing pupils to embrace challenge and strive for success. In line with this commitment, the Board of Governors will shortly begin the process of recruiting a new Chair of Governors to lead the next chapter of the school’s development.

The Governors would welcome expressions of interest from candidates who can demonstrate:

• Strong leadership experience

• A collaborative working approach

• Sound financial acumen

• A commitment to educational excellence in today’s world

• The ability to guide the implementation of the school’s strategic vision

• A commitment to ensuring the school meets its statutory and regulatory responsibilities

• The time to commit fully to the role

Those interested in learning more about the position, arranging an informal conversation with members of the Board of Governors, or requesting a recruitment pack should contact governorrecruitment@stmarysgx.co.uk.

The recruitment pack includes full details of the application process and eligibility criteria. Please note that parents or family members of a child attending the school in January 2027, as well as staff members employed by the school at that time, are not eligible to apply for the role of Chair of Governors.

Expressions of interest should be submitted by 28 July 2026, with full applications due by 3 September 2026.