Our Team

Mrs Sophie Banks, Head

BA QTS (Hons), M Ed

Mrs Sophie Banks became Head of Pembridge Hall in September 2022 after a long career in preparatory education, having previously worked across Early Years and Primary School age groups. Before joining Pembridge Hall, Mrs Banks was Headmistress of Eton End School, Datchet, and spent the previous 12 years at Beachborough School, Westbury, as Head of the Junior Department. 

Having herself gone to a single-sex school, Mrs Banks is passionate about the advantages an all-girls education offers. She believes in the importance of Character Education and supports initiatives that directly benefit our students. In addition, she is committed to providing a learning environment where all girls can reach their individual potential. 

Mrs Nicola Gray, Deputy Head

BA Ed (Hons) QTS

Mrs Nicola Gray joined Pembridge Hall in September 2017 and is passionate about Pastoral Care. She previously served as Deputy Head at the Prague British School (now PBIS), Czechia, and Prep Music Teacher at Shrewsbury International School, Thailand.

Mrs Gray studied Music and Education at university. That was many years ago; however, she still enjoys playing the piano and singing in (and leading) various choirs. She also takes pleasure in discovering new restaurants and going to the theatre.

Ms Elizabeth Symonds, Assistant Head Academic (Progress & Achievement) & Head of Operations

BA (Hons) PGCE

With a distinguished academic career in the UK, Ms. Elizabeth Symonds has progressed from a class teacher to middle management and senior leadership roles, amassing a wealth of experience. Her diverse background spans both state and independent schools, co-educational and single-sex environments, and covers all age groups from Reception to Year 6. Since joining the Pembridge Hall family in 2008, Ms. Symonds has deeply nurtured her career here, gaining extensive knowledge and experience of the school's mission and traditions. She is proud to have been a part of the educational journey of hundreds of Pembridge pupils and looks forward to the journey continuing.

Miss Nicola Wright, Assistant Head Pastoral (DSL)

BA (Hons) Ed, NASENCO

Miss Wright has been teaching for the last 10 years in diverse London schools. In her previous position, she was part of the Senior Leadership Team, serving as both the Special Needs Coordinator and the Designated Safeguarding Lead. She is deeply passionate about inclusive education and ensuring the welfare of all children. Miss Wright firmly believes that a happy and supportive learning environment is key to children's success and overall development.

Miss Bobbie Young, Assitant Head Academic (Curriculum and Future Schools)

BA (Hons), PGCE, QTS

After graduating from the University of York with a BA (Hons) in English and Related Literature, Bobbie taught in Seoul, South Korea, before returning to the UK to complete her Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) specialised in Primary 5-11 and gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Since then, she has worked in different schools across different year groups, particularly in her role as a Primary Teaching and Learning Consultant for the Harris Federation, specialising in teacher training and curriculum development.