Introducing our 2025/2026 Heads of School

Inspiring leaders. Supportive friends. Proud ambassadors.  
 

Our Heads of School embody the spirit of our community: ambitious yet grounded, kind yet determined, and passionate about making a difference. They are chosen not just for their achievements, but for the example they set to those around them. This year, we are delighted to introduce Isaac, Lily, Romily and Hugo - four remarkable pupils whose journeys capture what it means to be inspired, be brilliant, be you.

 

Lily 

Lily’s Lancing story spans continents, originally from Connecticut, USA, she joined in the Third Form, took a short break, and returned in the Fourth Form. Lancing quickly became a second home. 

“When I was asked to be Head of School, I was pleasantly surprised. It was a moment that felt both unexpected and greatly affirming. I was grateful that everything I had contributed to Lancing had been recognized and valued by the community that has become such an integral part of my life.” 

As she embarks on her final year, Lily’s focus is on finishing strong, both academically and personally, and leaving her mark as a leader who prioritises kindness and involvement. 

“I want to be remembered as someone who showed up, participated fully in College life and treated everyone with warmth and respect.” 

Her fondest memory is Sports Day, a much-loved tradition that brings the whole school together in spirited competition and celebration. And the event she’s most looking forward to is the Leavers’ Service - a symbolic moment of reflection, gratitude and new beginnings. 

Ms Anne McKane, Lily's Housemistress, commented, "Lily brings humility, integrity and compassion to all she does. She will be a wonderful Head of School."

Looking ahead, Lily hopes to study International Management at UCL or King’s, with plans to pursue a global career in business. 

 

Hugo  

Hugo’s Lancing journey began long before Sixth Form. Having attended both Lancing Prep Worthing and Lancing Prep Hove, he joined the College in the Third Form and has grown up within the Lancing family. 

“Having been part of this community for several years, I’ve seen how it has shaped me both academically and personally.” 

Now studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry, Hugo hopes to pursue Engineering at Cambridge. He has explored his interests beyond the classroom too, from taking part in CREST projects on wave energy with Ricardo engineers to competing in Olympiads and performing in musicals and plays. 

“What sets Lancing apart is the support. Teachers are mentors who guide you beyond the syllabus, and the community, from friends to matrons, is always there to help. You’re never just another student here.” 

Hugo also values the breadth of life beyond academics, from the creative outlet of drama and music to the camaraderie and balance sport brings. These experiences, he says, have prepared him for the future as much as any classroom lesson. 

Mr Nat Payne, Hugo's Housemaster, stated, “Hugo is a perfect choice for one of the Heads of School. Driven, ambitious and hugely capable, he is also kind, empathetic and understanding, and Hugo's personable, thoughtful nature help him to exercise his considerable gifts to the benefit of all. Absolutely committed to the academic, dramatic and sporting life of the school, Hugo is unstinting in his efforts across the board and is an exceptional role-model. His levity and good humour will make him an excellent leader, as they will a collaborator, and I have absolute faith in his sound-judgement and right-thinking.” 


 

Isaac

When Isaac joined Lancing in the Lower Sixth from Durrington High School on an academic scholarship, he never imagined he’d be appointed a Head of School so soon. 

“I felt both surprised and proud, I never expected to get the role of prefect, let alone Head of School, especially having joined just last year. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to represent this community.” 

A passionate mathematician and computer scientist, Isaac is studying Maths, Further Maths, Computer Science, Economics and an EPQ, having already achieved an A* in A Level Maths in Year 12. His ambition is to study Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Imperial, Edinburgh or Bath, and ultimately become an AI engineer. 

At Lancing, Isaac has thrown himself into every opportunity, from co-leading a team in the CanSat satellite competition to writing for The Quad. Determined to strengthen the Computer Science provision at the College, he has launched a coding club for Third Formers and introduced an academic support scheme linking older and younger pupils. 

“I want to leave behind a more collaborative community. Whether it’s through mentoring schemes or clubs that bring pupils together, I hope people remember me as kind, welcoming and approachable.” 

Isaac's Housemistress, Ms Eleanor Kaye, commented: “Isaac joined Head's House at the start of the Lower Sixth and from the moment he arrived it was clear he wanted to make the very most of his time at Lancing. He is a bright and hardworking student who has excelled academically, including by already achieving a Grade A* in his Maths A Level. Isaac has also stretched himself further outside of the classroom, for example by being an integral member of the CanSat team that made it through to the national competition last year. He has got stuck into his sport, including hockey, and participated in our House sleep out to raise money for a local homeless charity. Isaac is an organised and extremely reliable member of the house, with excellent leadership skills; he is calm, measured and highly respected by his peers and junior house members alike. I was absolutely thrilled to hear he had been appointed as a Head of School, and I know he will do an outstanding job!” 

 

Romily 

Romily’s story is one of transformation. Having lived in seven countries, including Jordan, Kenya and Nepal, she arrived at Lancing in the Third Form nervous and unsure. 

“I cried a lot before I came! But looking back now, I’m clinging on because I don’t want to leave. Lancing has become a second family.” 

Romily quickly found a home here, drawn to the diversity of the community and the openness of discussion. From weekend Scrabble battles in Field’s House to deep conversations about global events, she has embraced every opportunity to learn and connect. 

Leadership roles as a prefect and NCO Sergeant have taught her how to lead with empathy, a skill she hopes to use in the future as a leader in human rights law, geopolitics or international development. Her academic interests are equally global: she plans to study Geography at Oxford, Edinburgh, LSE, UCL or Bristol. 

Art has been another passion, inspiring her EPQ on fashion as a form of non-violent protest, while involvement in the Green Group has deepened her understanding of people, place and planet. But perhaps her proudest achievement is the £8,000 raised for The Survivors Trust as a charity rep. 

“I want my legacy to be one of inclusivity, diversity and open dialogue. Lancing taught me the importance of giving back, and that even small actions can change lives.” 

Romily's Housemistress, Mrs Emma Campbell, commented: “Romily is a very warm and friendly student with many talents and a great sense of humour. She has a positive influence on all those around her and is a great team player. She has been at the school since third form and even through some challenging times has shown amazing strength of character. She gets on well with everyone and sees the best in people..” 

 

Leading the Way 

Isaac, Lily, Romily and Hugo may have different stories, ambitions and interests, but together they share a common purpose: to lead with integrity, to support and uplift those around them, and to leave Lancing stronger than they found it. 

Their words, actions and examples remind us that leadership is about more than titles, it’s about curiosity, kindness, courage and community.