SWPS announces the appointment of our new Head

The Governing Body of Sir William Perkins’s School is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Debbie Picton as the next Head, taking up the post from 1 September 2023. Emerging from a field of impressive candidates and following a rigorous selection process, Debbie will succeed Mr Chris Muller after his nine years of Headship and five years of Deputy Headship at the school.

“Debbie brings a track record of strong academic and pastoral leadership gained in the independent education sector.” said Mike Bannister, Chair of Governors. “As our next Head, she will undoubtedly champion Sir William Perkins’s mission, which strives to build student confidence, integrity and excellence in a caring, innovative and happy community.”

“We are particularly pleased to have appointed Debbie, as she brings with her the experience, skills and drive to build on the success of - and future plans for - the school” continued Mr Bannister, “her leadership, energy and enthusiasm will undoubtedly continue to propel the ongoing strategic development of our school towards an exciting future. I should like to wish Chris all the very best for the future, and thank him for his years of service to the school both as Head and formerly Deputy Head, and we look forward to a successful future for all of us at Sir William Perkins’s School.”

An Oxford graduate of Classics, Debbie Picton began her career at Highgate School, and following a variety of roles, rose to Deputy Head of Sixth Form and Head of Higher Education. Prior to joining Bancroft’s School in her current position as Senior Deputy Head, Debbie worked at North London Collegiate School as Assistant Head, Director of Sixth Form. A mother of two children, Debbie is part of the Women Leaders’ Network for ASCL, and a mentor for the HMC ‘Women in Senior Leadership’ network.

“I’m delighted to have been invited to take up the leadership of Sir William Perkins’s School.” Debbie said. “On visiting earlier this term, I was struck by the warmth of the community and its ambition for every student – it is clearly a school with a heart and one I will be incredibly proud to lead. My priority as Head will be to continue to provide an environment where each student enjoys the opportunities and support they need to become the best they can be. With an extremely strong academic record and reputation for first-class pastoral care, the school has a future full of exciting opportunities.”

With the 300th anniversary of the school on the horizon, the Governing Body and the Leadership of the school look forward to working with Debbie in a shared vision for the future. Sir William Perkins’s School has a rich history and an exciting future, and the school is proud to be welcoming Debbie to direct the school in the next phase of success.