Elaine Purves

Ms Elaine Purves took on Headship at Queen Anne’s School in January 2022. Her extensive experience, modern outlook and huge enthusiasm for outstanding education promises to lead Queen Anne’s in its next chapter and a bright future.  

"In these unsettling times, it is a privilege to lead such a strong, spirited and dynamic school. Our young people deserve the very best and we strive to meet this even in the most challenging of times. As educators, it is incumbent on us to ensure that every individual thrives and discovers their passions - and has a lot of fun along the way!"

Elaine joins the school following Headship at St. John’s International School in Belgium where the  school has gone from strength to strength in providing outstanding pastoral care and a forward-thinking education. Elaine has also previously been Head of Rossall School and Head of Ipswich High School, as well as five years as Deputy Head at the Royal High School, Bath, GDST.

In addition, Elaine is an experienced ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) Team Inspector and has recently become a CIS (Council of International Schools) Evaluator. She cares deeply about mental health and is a board member of CHS, a charity providing support and mental health services to the Brussels English-speaking community.

Fluent in German, Elaine is a linguist and began her career as a teacher of Modern Languages.  She graduated from the University of Hull with a joint honours degree in English and German before completing a PGCE at the University of Durham.