After almost two decades at the helm, Headmistress Isabel Tobias has announced her intention to retire at the end of the Summer Term 2020.

Mrs Tobias, an English graduate of New Hall, Cambridge University, qualified as a teacher in 1988 following an initial career in publishing.

 “Mrs T”, as she is often known, was appointed Head of the former Red Maids’ School in September 2001, from her previous role as Deputy Head at Royal High School, Bath. She continued as Head of Redmaids’ High School following the merger with Redland High in 2016.

Her many achievements while at the school include:

• Leading a school that educates the largest number of girls in the independent sector in Bristol;
• Introducing the International Baccalaureate Diploma in 2008, in addition to A Levels, to provide more choice for Sixth Formers;
• Creating opportunities for talented students from all backgrounds through a substantial scholarship and bursary programme;
• Instigating investment in the school’s facilities, the most recent of which are a brand new library; modernised dining hall and reception area and state-of-the-art performance hall. By Summer 2021, we expect to unveil new, world-class sporting facilities at the 16-acre site near Cribbs Causeway which we acquired in 2017;
• Developing an extensive curriculum, with a strong emphasis on science and other STEM subjects, but equally focussed on the humanities, the arts – creative and performing – languages, technologies and sport.

Mrs Tobias said: “The most important thing has been the achievements of the students whom I have had the privilege of teaching and leading over the last 18 years.”

Andrew Hillman, Chair of Governors, paid tribute saying: “Mrs Tobias is one of the outstanding Heads of her generation. The impact she has had on the life of the city of Bristol and the thousands of girls who have benefitted from her wisdom, charm and overall guidance is immeasurable. She has also nurtured the careers of many exceptional teachers. Above all, she has been a joy to work with.”