Portsmouth High School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Ruth Irvine‑Capel as the new Head of Prep School, effective from September 2026.
Her appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process that attracted a strong field of candidates from across the sector.
Mrs Irvine‑Capel is already a familiar and much‑loved presence within the school community, currently serving as Assistant Head (Pastoral) at the Prep School. An alumna of Oxford High School GDST, she studied History at the University of Cambridge before completing her PGCE. Her career includes teaching and leadership roles across both state and independent schools, as well as work as an advisory teacher. She joined Portsmouth High Prep School’s leadership team five years ago and has been instrumental in shaping its pastoral and academic provision.
Speaking about her appointment, Mrs Irvine‑Capel said:
‘I am thrilled to take on this new role and to continue working alongside our talented staff, supportive parents and, of course, our articulate and lively pupils. During the interview process, I shared my vision for the Prep School: that we continue to offer the very best in girl‑focused pastoral support and academic excellence, working closely with our senior school colleagues to ensure a coherent, inspiring educational journey.
‘I want parents to feel confident that at the Prep School their daughters will be both nurtured and challenged, with no limits placed on their learning right from the moment they join our wonderful pre-school. Our aim is that each girl not only fulfils her academic potential, but also develops the skills she needs to flourish as a fearless future leader and change-maker.’
Mrs Irvine‑Capel highlighted her commitment to further developing the school’s distinctive Explorers’ Curriculum, designed to nurture confident, composed, committed and courageous individuals. Building on strong foundations in core academic skills, the curriculum encourages girls to pursue their interests, broaden their horizons and discover new passions across a rich and varied programme.
Central to this approach are the six attributes of the school’s learning wheel — resilience, independence, curiosity, collaboration, imagination and making links — which underpin learning in every subject, from English, maths and science to sport, drama and music.
As a GDST alumna herself, Mrs Irvine‑Capel emphasised the strength of being part of a family of schools dedicated to putting girls first:
‘I have seen first-hand, not only as a teacher but also as a parent of daughters, the remarkable difference that the GDST ethos makes. I believe deeply that pastoral care and academic achievement go hand in hand. When girls feel safe, supported and valued, they are empowered to achieve their best. And when academic ambition is matched with excellent care, wellbeing and confidence soar.’
Portsmouth High School looks forward to welcoming Mrs Irvine‑Capel to her new role in September, when current Headmaster, Mr Paul Marshallsay, retires from the role. She hopes to continue the development of a Prep School where every girl is encouraged, challenged and inspired to aim high.
Opportunities to visit Portsmouth High Prep School
Open Week
Monday 2 through to Friday 6 March 2026
See the school in action on a normal teaching day. Book your place now to tour the school and meet the Head of the Prep School at portsmouthhigh.co.uk/admissions/visit-us/
Farm Visit in Southsea
Saturday 21 March from 10am to 12 noon
Open to all families with children up to 10 years. Book your place now at portsmouthhigh.co.uk/admissions/visit-us/
