Wandsworth Prep School Announces New Headteacher from September 2025

News

Wandsworth Preparatory School is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Joanna Pache as its new Headteacher, effective from September 2025.

Jo brings with her 25 years of rich and varied experience in education, having worked across the independent, state, and international sectors, both in the UK and abroad. She is currently Deputy Head at Broomfield House School in Kew and has built a strong reputation for her passionate, child-centred approach to education and leadership.

Throughout her career, Jo has demonstrated a deep commitment to the development of the whole child. Her vision of holistic education is rooted in academic excellence, pastoral care, and a joyful learning environment. As she describes it, “a golden thread of happiness” runs through everything she does — happiness that arises from being in a supportive, high-achieving atmosphere where pupils are encouraged to strive for and reach their full potential.

Jo is also well-versed in the differing needs of Early Years and Primary education, with a keen understanding of how to support children at every stage of their development. With strong links to local senior schools, she is well placed to guide Wandsworth Prep pupils as they transition to Year 7, ensuring each child finds the right next step for their future.

During the selection process, Jo impressed governors, staff, and pupils alike with her thoughtful grasp of the school’s ethos and her clear ambition for its next chapter. Her warm manner and insightful leadership left a lasting impression on the community — and the feedback from those who met her played a key role in her appointment.

Jo shared her enthusiasm for the role, saying:

“Wandsworth Prep has a wonderful reputation locally for its academic provision and pastoral care. I look forward to leading with energy, passion and integrity to help the school build on this reputation. I will work to develop a broad but academically rigorous curriculum and will support teachers to deliver it at its full potential. Working with the children, teachers and families at Wandsworth, I aim to continue the school’s track record of nurturing well-rounded and happy children.”

Outside of the classroom, Jo enjoys yoga, gardening, solving puzzles, and following football as a lifelong fan. She is a mother of three, who keep her busy when she’s not at school. An advocate for lifelong learning, Jo is currently studying part time for a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Management at Roehampton University, and enjoys exploring the latest educational research to inform and inspire her practice.

As Wandsworth Prep prepares for this exciting new chapter, a careful handover is already underway. Current Head, Laura Nike, and her team will work closely with Jo to ensure a smooth transition. We are thrilled to welcome Jo to the Wandsworth Prep community and look forward to supporting her as she leads the school confidently into its next stage of growth and excellence.