We are delighted to announce the return of Patricia Woodhouse as Principal of Surval Montreux International Girls’ Boarding School in Switzerland. Patricia served as Principal at Surval from 2016 - 2021. Her extensive experience, excellent international reputation and boundless energy will forge this exciting next stage of our history.
Mrs Woodhouse has over 30 years experience in British and International boarding schools. Prior to her five years at Surval, she held two headships at prestigious girls’ boarding schools in the UK. She is a trained ISI Team Inspector, an experienced School Governor, and also a former member of the Worshipful Company of Educators. She is passionate about all girls’ education, a fun-filled boarding life and supporting students in maximising their potential and securing their next steps after school.
Under her leadership, our school established a flexible curriculum, modernised the pre-university programme and student-led co-curricular initiatives were created, empowering girls to shape their own skill development. All girls benefitted from the focus on Social Enterprise, Global Perspectives, Language and Culture, fulfilling the Surval promise of a global education. Mrs Woodhouse successfully led the school through the Covid pandemic, ensuring active learning continued and a safe space was provided for girls who could not return home.
Patricia returns to Surval following a three year sabbatical and will succeed Nicola Dudley who will be leaving in October 2024. Patricia and Nicola will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition process.
Of this opportunity, Mrs Woodhouse says,
“I am delighted to be returning to Surval Montreux. I love the true internationalism of the school and its location – in the heart of Europe, with so many educational, network and travel opportunities for Surval girls to relish.
I look forward to delivering a modern and forward-thinking education, equipping each and every girl with the confidence, tenacity and resilience to succeed in life.
I am proud and privileged to have the opportunity to return and to build on all that Nicola Dudley has achieved, so that Surval is the destination of choice for future generations of girls. I look forward to meeting and welcoming you here”.
With her dedication and professionalism, Nicola Dudley has implemented many important changes to Surval's provision with rigour and expertise. We wish her nothing but success as she moves back to the UK to become Head at Queen Margaret's School for Girls in York.
Enquire today and become a Surval Girl at our breathtaking home from home, in Montreux.