An independent Harrogate school says it’s “thrilled” after unveiling its first-ever female Prep Head as part of a series of appointments.

After a “rich and fulfilling” year as Deputy Head at Ashville Prep School in Harrogate, Abigail Hiley has been promoted to her history-making new role as Head.

She brings a wealth of teaching and leadership experience that spans the UK, Dubai and the esteemed Harrow International School, Hong Kong.

The move is only one of a hat-trick of announcements aimed at strengthening Ashville College Prep School’s senior leadership team

Harrogate school's first female Head of Prep School - Abigail Hiley, centre, with other new Ashville appointments Eileen McTigue and Jenny Tropia. (Picture contributed)

placeholder image — Harrogate school's first female Head of Prep School - Abigail Hiley, centre, with other new Ashville appointments Eileen McTigue and Jenny Tropia. (Picture contributed)

Other key new appointments see Jenny Tropia take up the position of Deputy Head of Prep School, and Eileen McTigue becoming Deputy Head of Pre-Prep.

Jenny was Ashville’s first United States parent liaison officer in Pre-Prep and Prep School, drawing upon more than 20 years working in education and a decade living and teaching in Connecticut in the States.

Eileen was previously the Head of Year at the British International School, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and has 20 years’ experience in primary teaching.

Head of Ashville, Rhiannon Wilkinson, said: “After a rich and fulfilling year as Deputy Head, we’re thrilled to welcome Abigail as our first female Head of Prep School.

“Her expertise and passion for preparatory education will be invaluable as the growth and success of the ‘New Ashville’ gains further momentum.

“At a time when Ashville has been rated as a great school with ‘new energy’ in the prestigious Good Schools Guide, Abigail will lead the Prep School through the next stage at a time of new investment in both facilities and educational opportunities.

“We are proud of our local roots but Abigail, Jenny and Eileen’s wide range of international insights and expertise will add a rare dimension for our pupils.”

Abigail Hiley said: “I’m very much looking forward to playing an integral role in the future of our wonderful Prep School and contributing to the continued development of the ‘New Ashville’, a school rooted in tradition, yet ambitious for the future."

Other new initiatives at the independent school include Ashville Young Leaders ad Girls on Board.