GDST announces transfer of ownership for Ipswich High School

The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) has today announced its intention to transfer the ownership of Ipswich High School to Ipswich Education Ltd. This decision has been made after a thorough and well-considered process and in the long term best interests of the school and students. 

Ipswich Education Ltd’s plans involve significant future investment, in terms of facilities, resources and training, as well as building on the school’s ethos and values. The school will continue to be led by the same management team, under the Headship of Ms Oona Carlin.

The board of governors, led by Chair John Pickering, will also remain the same. He and his board are fully supportive of the change of ownership and the evolution of the school.

Cheryl Giovannoni, Chief Executive of the GDST, said:

“We have undertaken a rigorous process in making this decision and are confident Ipswich Education will continue to provide a first-class education for Ipswich High School girls and build on the school’s traditions and values. The GDST will do everything possible to support the seamless transition to Ipswich Education.”

Ms Carlin said:

“We have had a wonderful relationship with the GDST over the years. We now move into an exciting new era, with a new educational model. We plan to introduce a co-educational element to families in the region, enabling boys to be part of the school in certain year groups. The school will also introduce boarding, with new boarding facilities.”

John Pickering, Chair Governors at Ipswich High School said:

“The Board of Governors is extremely confident about the future of Ipswich High under the new ownership and we are very excited about what this represents for new and existing pupils. We are delighted that Ipswich Education will be making substantial investments in the school”.

Paul Newton, Chairman of Ipswich Education Ltd, said:

“Ipswich High School is a wonderful school, in a stunning setting, with an outstanding track record. We are looking forward to working with Oona Carlin and her team in developing this positive new era, while building on the history, culture and values of the school.”