"I am extremely proud to be the 13th Head of this wonderful school. For more than 140 years, Shrewsbury High has been a place where students have been inspired to aim high, to think independently and to flourish both academically and personally.

As we join the ILG family of schools, I want to acknowledge that immense legacy of our school. That legacy will always remain at the heart of who we are. At the same time, this moment in our history gives us the chance to look forward with renewed energy and optimism.

The move to ILG is guided by a single, clear purpose: to place Shrewsbury High on the strongest possible footing for the future. The process will be led by principles of stability, care, and continuity for our students, staff and families. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of academic and pastoral excellence, while preparing for an exciting next chapter which includes a move to coeducation – thoughtfully planned out and carefully overseen. Initially we will welcome boys from September 2026 into our Junior School and into years 7 and 12 of our Senior School.

I truly believe this new chapter offers an extraordinary opportunity: to preserve everything we treasure about Shrewsbury High, while opening new doors of possibility for our pupils in the years ahead. Together, we will ensure that our school not only continues its proud tradition but grows into an even more vibrant community for the future."

Darren Payne, Head

Our core values and aims shape everything we do from Reception to Sixth Form.

Our purpose

to build pupils of character and enable them, through their own endeavour, to achieve beyond the bounds of expectation.

Our vision

to provide an education, within an inclusive, caring and purposeful community, that is an exciting journey of discovery for each individual, opening doors to a world of possibilities.

Our promise

to promote happiness, guide discovery, have fun, realise potential and deliver excellence – consistently and reliably for all of our pupils.

A Shrewsbury High School student:

• Shows respect for themselves and others
• Is compassionate, has social responsibility and ambition
• Has a sense of responsibility for their own actions and develops personal integrity
• Practices and develops confidence, and seeks to be courageous, not perfect
• Approaches their learning with curiosity and creativity
• Has a global perspective and appreciates that life is not just about oneself
• Shows strength of character by rejecting unkindness, cruelty and bullying
• Builds a growing resilience in response to setbacks and disappointments
• Supports their friends and celebrates their successes

The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) is a family of twenty-four independent schools and two academies across the UK, dedicated to academic and pastoral excellence.

As pioneers and shapers of girls’ education for 153 years, we put girls first, tailoring their learning experiences to nurture confident, happy and fearless young women. Our forward-thinking approach to education provides development opportunities beyond the curriculum and equips girls with the skills and attributes to become the leaders and changemakers of the future on their own terms.

Our family is enriched by a global network of over 100,000 alumnae, whose achievements and impact inspire our students as they make significant strides towards a more equitable world.

Click here to learn more.