The governors of Unicorn School are delighted to announce that Polly Fraley will become the school's new headteacher from September 1.

Unicorn, which last year celebrated its 50th anniversary, is a co-educational, independent school located on Kew Road, opposite Kew Gardens.

The school is well known in the community for its child-centred approach combined with excellent academic results and success in sports, music and the arts.

Polly, who succeeds Kit Thompson, was educated at the Godolphin and Latymer School before studying history at Oxford and completing her PGCE in primary education at the University of Roehampton.

She first joined Unicorn in 2008 as head of juniors and learning support and spent six years with the school before moving to Sheen Mount Primary School to broaden her experience, returning to Unicorn in 2017 as deputy head.

The exceptional reputation and standing of Unicorn attracted an excellent field of applicants for the role of headteacher.

Governors prioritised candidates with a strong affinity for the school's ethos and values, but who also demonstrated a clear vision and insight into the future educational needs of Unicorn pupils.

Consistent with those values, the latter stages of the interview process included a pupil panel, whose feedback further informed the governors' deliberations.

Ultimately, Polly shone through with her professional approach and her passion for the school.

Commenting on her appointment, Polly said: "I am thrilled to be taking over the reins of Unicorn and am committed to adhering to our founders' vision of providing a broad, exciting and creative curriculum for our children.

"It will be a privilege to do my part in continuing our 'Unicorn community' ethos, where every child and their family is important and valued."

Co-chairs or governors Phil Hinton and Geoff Bayliss said: "We sought a leader who will be able to provide the leadership, inspiration and innovation to continue the evolution of Unicorn while staying true to its original ethos of which governors, parents, staff and pupils are so committed.

"From a very strong field of candidates, we are confident that Polly is an outstanding choice for our next Head.

Finally, we wish to thank Kit Thompson for his eight years of excellent service and leadership of the school."

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