A new headteacher has been appointed at a school in Worthing.
Emily Hill will take up the role at Our Lady of Sion School from September 2026, bringing what the school describes as a “renewed sense of purpose, ambition and momentum” to the independent school.
She is currently the deputy head at Bethany School in Kent and brings a broad range of experience spanning senior leadership, inspection and school governance.
Emily Hill said: “Our Lady of Sion already offers something truly special, a nurturing environment where young people grow in confidence and character.
“I am incredibly excited to build on this, to champion the school more widely, and to help shape a vibrant, forward-looking future for every pupil.”
Her background includes a leadership role at Cape Cornwall School, time as head of English, and experience as a literacy coordinator.
Ms Hill also serves as a primary school governor and is an experienced inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).
She will join the Sion community during the summer term to meet pupils, staff and families before taking up the role officially in September 2026.
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Village ‘at heart of rural Sussex’ with stunning walks and one of world’s top schools
Village ‘at heart of rural Sussex’ with stunning walks and one of world’s top schools
Her appointment follows the 11-year tenure of outgoing headteacher Steve Jeffery, whose leadership the school has credited with helping to create “the platform for this next phase of growth and transformation.”
Ms Hill was chosen following a highly competitive selection process, according to the school.
A spokesman for Our Lady of Sion School said: “Throughout a highly competitive selection process, Mrs Hill stood out for her vision, energy and commitment to excellence.
“She shares Sion’s belief in educating the whole child, academically, socially and emotionally, and brings a clear determination to build on the school’s strong foundations while shaping a bold and sustainable future.”
The school is now looking ahead to what it describes as a period of “renewal, ambition and opportunity.”
It plans to evolve its approach to meet the needs of modern families and strengthen its position as a leading independent school in West Sussex.
The appointment comes at a time when the independent sector is facing significant change.