Jude Lowson has been chosen to lead The King's School, Canterbury, marking a significant milestone as the institution's first female headteacher after an astonishing 1,425 years dominated by

male leadership. The school, which boasts a roster of notable alumni including David Gower, Michael Morpurgo, and Christopher Marlowe, will witness a new era under Lowson's guidance.

Founded in 597 AD by the inaugural Archbishop of Canterbury, The King's School resides within the hallowed confines of the city's renowned Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The school's historical roots are deep, and it has evolved over time to adapt to changing times.

In a transformative move, the school introduced girls to its sixth form in the 1970s, breaking a tradition of admitting only boys that had spanned over 1,400 years. A stride towards full co-education was taken in 1990.

Lowson, who will commence her tenure in September, steps into a role historically held by men. With the school charging a staggering £14,830 per term for boarding, the appointment of a female head is indicative of an evolving landscape in education.

The newly appointed head, Jude Lowson, expressed her privilege in leading one of the world's oldest schools and residing in a location steeped in history. Living within the precincts of the Cathedral, she noted the unique perspective it offered, with the Cathedral's awe-inspiring presence providing a daily source of inspiration.

Lowson's educational journey includes attending local state primary schools in South London and later boarding at Sevenoaks School. She pursued her passion for teaching, shifting from a career in advertising at Bartle Bogle Hegarty to make a positive impact through education. Her teaching career began at Whitgift School in Croydon, and she eventually rose to the position of deputy head at Putney High.

As the first female headteacher, Lowson expressed her commitment to enhancing bursary offerings and fostering collaborations with local communities, emphasizing the importance of education accessibility. She dismissed the adversarial stance between the public and private sectors in education, highlighting the potential for mutual learning and resource sharing.

Lowson envisions a holistic education that blends tradition with forward-thinking values, focusing on self-discovery, self-belief, and ambition. With a profound connection to the Cathedral, she seeks to provide students with a strong sense of identity and purpose, preparing them for future challenges and contributions to the world. Photo by Oosoom, Wikimedia commons.