Staff News

Introducing new Heads of Year from January 2027

At the heart of our school community is a deep and unwavering commitment to pastoral care—to knowing our students, walking alongside them during good times and times of struggle, and ensuring that each young person feels supported, valued, heard and empowered to thrive.

As our student numbers continue to grow and the needs of our community evolve, we recognise the importance of strengthening this support even further. With this in mind, I am delighted to let you know that from the beginning of 2027, we will introduce an enhanced pastoral care structure through the appointment of dedicated Heads of Year, each responsible for a single year group and journeying with them over a two-year period.

This model reflects our belief that strong relationships matter. When students are known well, when trust is built over time, and when families have consistent points of contact pastorally, we create the conditions for young people to flourish—academically, socially, and emotionally.

From January 2027, our Heads of Year structure will be as follows:

• Year 7 & 8: Mr Tom Dempers and Mr Hiep Nguyen
• Year 9 & 10: Mr Brad Cotterell and Mrs Meghan Evans
• Year 11 & 12: Miss Giorgia Bakeberg and Miss Chloe Hewitt

This transition will begin with thoughtful continuity:

• Mr Hiep Nguyen will welcome our new Year 7 students as they begin their high school journey, while Mr Tom Dempers will continue alongside our current Year 7 cohort as they move into Year 8.
• Mrs Meghan Evans will take on the role of Head of Year 9 for our current Year 8 students, while Mr Brad Cotterell will remain with the Year 9 cohort as they progress into Year 10.
• Miss Chloe Hewitt will become Head of Year 11 for our current Year 10 students, while Miss Giorgia Bakeberg will continue her journey with Year 11 as they transition into their final year as Year 12 students.

This approach ensures both continuity and connection—key elements of effective pastoral care. It allows our staff to truly understand the individual journeys and needs of each student, to respond proactively to any concerns, and to celebrate their growth and successes over time.

Importantly, this initiative is not simply about structure—it is about deepening our culture of care. It is about ensuring that every student is known, every voice is heard, and every challenge is met with guidance and personal support. It strengthens our partnership with families, providing clear and consistent communication, and reinforces our shared commitment to positive pastoral care and student wellbeing.

These are exciting times for our school. As we continue to grow, so too does our capacity to care—with intention, with purpose, and with heart. This enhanced pastoral care model will enable us to build even stronger relationships and provide the kind of holistic support that empowers our students to do their best and become their best. Everyone Matters at St George’s and this new structure will ensure that this continues to be the mantra by which we lead the education of our students. 

Together, we look forward to this next chapter with confidence and enthusiasm.