The start of a new academic year is always exciting but it is especially so at Dunottar School in Reigate this year. In addition to welcoming the school’s largest ever co-educational cohort of new pupils, the senior leadership team has been shortlisted in the prestigious TES Independent School Awards 2016.

The TES Independent School Awards celebrate the teams and individuals making remarkable strategic contributions to independent schools across the UK and seek to applaud excellence and reward innovation.

The ‘Senior Leadership Team of the Year’ category recognises that effective schools require exceptional leaders and looks for a senior leadership team that has shown inspirational leadership of a school.  Dunottar’s senior leadership team comprises Head teacher, Rowena Cole, and Deputy Heads Marc Broughton and Pippa Smithson. 

Rowena Cole said: “I am thrilled that we have been shortlisted for this award.  We have accomplished a huge amount at Dunottar in the last two years – and are excited about everything we can achieve in the future - but none of it would have been possible without the fantastic team spirit that we have at this school.  The sense of community and the enthusiasm, knowledge and commitment of our staff extends far beyond the senior leadership team, but Marc, Pippa and I feel very honoured to be recognised in this way.”

Rosalind Given-Wilson, Chair of Dunottar's Local Governing Board, commented: "I have been deeply impressed by the leadership that Rowena Cole, Marc Broughton and Pippa Smithson have demonstrated at Dunottar. Their energy, positivity and support motivates staff and inspires pupils. They set the tone for Dunottar, which is one of optimism, aspiration and inclusivity, and they lead by example. To be nominated for such a prestigious award is recognition of a truly exceptional team who are shaping Dunottar's exciting future."