The new Headmistress of Mayfield in Sussex, Deborah Bligh, discusses her background and educational philosophy
What is your background?
I cannot remember a time when I did not want to be a teacher. After completing my education at the Universities of Durham and Cambridge I went straight back into the classroom! For 21 years I enjoyed a professionally challenging and very happy experience at St Richard’s Catholic College, a state school ranking in the top 2% in the country for value added. Mayfield’s excellent reputation was well known to me, and I had enjoyed visits over the years, but I was drawn by its innovative vision of a new wellbeing centre. Joining as Senior Deputy in September 2023, I now proudly serve as the headmistress of 400 remarkable girls.
What excites you most about your role at Mayfield School?
I’m thrilled about the opportunity to enhance something already incredibly strong and unique; the transformative power of an all-girls education, where students can be themselves, free from gender stereotypes. I love the fact that our principles of Joy, Compassion, Integrity, and Respect are palpable across the school. What excites me most is our investment in a forward-thinking wellness centre. It will be at the core of our unwavering commitment to equipping our girls with the skills and strategies they need to navigate an ever-changing world confidently. We aim to foster a strong sense of self, an informed voice, and a determination to embrace challenges and opportunities with optimism.
What is your academic philosophy?
I firmly believe in the concept of “formation.” When teachers, experts in their fields, collaborate closely with parents, who are the experts on their child, we can provide the very best environment for children to grow and develop. My motto for our students is simple yet powerful: “Be Seen, Be Heard, Be Ready.”
Can you tell us about one pivotal moment in your career?
Back in 2018, the education council I was working in formed a Mental Health Education Wellbeing department and encouraged schools to get involved early on. I jumped at the opportunity and quickly immersed myself in research on student wellbeing, creating a comprehensive approach to wellbeing for our entire school. Our efforts were recognised when we received the highest level award from the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust for transforming student wellbeing. I took on a leadership role in this area and spent time helping other schools improve their approaches.
This groundwork proved invaluable when the challenges of the Covid years hit. We were well-prepared to roll out a recovery curriculum quickly and successfully. I now carry with me a strong conviction that student wellbeing, focusing on resilience, adaptability, and happiness, should be central to the mission of every school.
What is Mayfield’s approach and what sets it apart?
Mayfield’s approach is encapsulated in our motto, “actions not words,” which drives everything we do. We pursue opportunities for our students to engage in real leadership, confront challenges, cultivate problem-solving skills, and recognise that a strong moral core will be their most important attribute.
What makes a great student?
There’s a remarkable sense of self-contentment and a genuine celebration of one another that I haven’t encountered elsewhere. A great student goes beyond pursuing personal goals; they prioritise the happiness of others as much as their own. Their confidence in their abilities, talents, and identity is so strong that they naturally uplift and support their classmates.
From your experience, what makes a great school environment?A great school environment is one where belonging isn’t about conforming but about genuine acceptance. It’s a place where staff are empowered with the time, resources, and encouragement to bring their enthusiasm and dedication, fostering an atmosphere that ignites learning.
It’s a place where the structure of the school day is thoughtfully designed to prevent cognitive overload, allowing space for students to pursue their passions and form meaningful friendships. Ultimately, it’s a school infused with joy, where each child is celebrated for their unique qualities, empowered to recognise their own value, find their voice, and seize every opportunity. Through this nurturing environment, students leave ready to tackle the ‘needs of the age’, enriching society in the process.
Mayfield School mayfieldgirls.org
Further reading: 60 seconds with Jody Wells, Head of Wells Cathedral Junior School
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