Meet our new Head, Rhian Thornton

We are delighted to welcome Rhian Thornton, who joins Somerhill this term as our new Head.

Originally from Wales, Rhian brings over twenty years of leadership experience to her new role, having led both co-educational and single-sex schools in Surrey and Berkshire. For the past nine years, she has been Head of Upton House School in Windsor, where she has helped to transform it into a thriving school, known for its strengths in technology, sport and the arts.

Rhian describes headship as a “great privilege” and it is clear that her passion for children, learning and community shines through in everything she does:

“Excellence everywhere, happy children, high academic standards and a strong sense of community, are at the heart of my leadership,” says Rhian. “Somerhill is an incredible school with many strengths and a wonderful community. I am so looking forward to growing and leading the school in partnership with parents, staff and governors; ensuring every pupil thrives and creates special memories along the way.”

Rhian has spent a significant amount of time at Somerhill over the past year, getting to know our children, teachers, governors and the local school community and she is delighted to be onboard.

“It has been a pleasure meeting so many of Somerhill’s wonderful pupils and staff” she says. “My husband, three children, two dogs and I are very much looking forward to being a part of Somerhill life.”

Rhian and her husband Marcus, a product designer working in the technology sector, share a love of education and creativity. Their three children, Joseph, Lily, and Martha, are all at senior schools in the south-east and are keen sports enthusiasts, with family passions ranging from rugby and water polo to netball, lacrosse and dance. Completing the Thornton family are their fox red labradors, Elmo and Ernie, who are excited to be here and have enjoyed meeting Reggie, our Somerhill dog!

As well as being a governor at two London prep schools, Rhian is also an active member of the IAPS Education Committee, contributing to national conversations on curriculum development and the future of independent education. She has a forward-thinking perspective and is particularly interested in technology and innovation in the classroom, including Somerhill’s pioneering engineering curriculum.

Chair of Governors Mark Jiskoot shared:

“We are delighted to welcome Rhian to the Somerhill community. Her warmth, experience and vision align perfectly with our ethos of confident, curious and resilient children. With her passion for education, Rhian is the ideal leader to guide Somerhill into its next exciting chapter.”

Rhian’s message to the community is one of enthusiasm and connection:

“I can’t wait to get to know our families and hear your thoughts, as we shape the future of this wonderful school together.”

Welcome to Somerhill, Rhian!