The UK’s only Quaker school for girls, The Mount, has announced that Adrienne Richmond will take over from its current principal, Julie Lodrick, on 1 January 2016. Adrienne is currently deputy head at Durham High School for Girls and was previously director of studies at Newcastle Central High School GDST. A core member of the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate team which inspected the all-girl Quaker school in 2012, Adrienne says she is excited to be The Mount’s next principal: “I applied having been drawn to The Mount’s progressive education philosophy, academic prowess and excellence in pastoral care. The Quaker ethos shines through every aspect of the school. When I was part of the ISI inspection team, I was deeply impressed by how very articulate, confident and composed the girls are. I look forward to building on the school’s successes through the outstanding work of Julie Lodrick and the leadership team.
“Since my appointment was announced to colleagues at Durham HSG, I have been approached by countless people who have congratulated me and remarked what a lovely school The Mount is, with a truly excellent reputation. I am delighted to be taking up this position. The Mount is a truly unique place to be.”
Timothy Phillips, clerk of committee (chair of The Mount’s board of governors), said: “We look forward to beginning work with Adrienne to ensure a thorough and smooth transition. Adrienne’s own academic standards, business acumen, leadership capabilities and values and beliefs will be well-suited to leading the school through the next exciting chapter in its long and distinguished history.”
Adrienne is a keen musician and chorister. She studied mathematics at Newcastle University and trained as a maths teacher at Manchester University and has taught in three co-educational maintained schools. She enjoys hill walking and camping and is an established Duke of Edinburgh Award leader.
Julie Lodrick, who became principal of The Mount in 2009, will move to Kent College in Pembury to become their new headmistress from January. She said: “I am thrilled that the committee has found such an experienced and dynamic professional in Adrienne and I look forward to working with her in the months ahead. As we say, The Mount is in good heart.”
