Oxford graduate is new head of The Ladies’ College

Daniele Harford-Fox will succeed Ashley Clancy, who retires in April next year.

She is due visit Guernsey next month when she will be introduced to colleagues, pupils and students.

‘I was drawn to the school’s powerful ethos of “do what is right, come what may”,’ she said. ‘Now, more than ever, it feels important to raise young women to believe in the power of their own voice and their ability to change the world for the better.

‘I’m so excited to have the opportunity to lead a school full of such talented staff, pupils and students.’

The third-generation teacher added it would be a huge honour for her to continue the exceptional work of her predecessors.

After completing a degree in experimental psychology at Oxford, she became a theatre director, working with companies in the UK, Bosnia, the USA, and Kenya. In 2003, she started the psychology department at Hillcrest International School in Nairobi, where she was promoted to head of sixth form.

A return to the UK in 2009 saw her take up a post at Solihull School in the West Midlands. She has been responsible for a number of major initiatives, from a large body of work on inclusion, gender and equality.

Advocate Caroline Chan, who chairs the board of governors, said Ms Harford-Fox had been appointed from a strong field of candidates.

‘Her experience and values resonated with everyone involved in the appointment process and I look forward to welcoming her and her husband, Will, to the island.’

Current principal Ashley Clancy praised her successor, saying: ‘She has a wealth of experience, which will support, develop and ensure the evolution of this very special community, which holds a special place in my heart.’