Dallam School has welcomed a new head of boarding, Nicola Gilbert, as part of their staff for the new academic year.

The Milnthorpe school, which caters to 11-19 year-olds, has a total of 1,000 students from 40 local schools, including over 50 international boarders.

These international students reside at the school's Heversham site and participate in short experience courses and the study of GCSEs and A Levels.

Nicola Gilbert arrives at Dallam School with an impressive background in boarding education.

She recently led her previous school's boarding provision through an inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), earning an 'excellent' rating in all areas, including pupils' achievements and their academic and personal development.

Ackworth School, where Nicola previously worked, is also a finalist for International Boarding School of The Year.

Dallam headteacher Steven Henneberry said: “Since accepting her position with us earlier this year, Nicola’s already been shaping changes at our boarding house. That’s included introducing more contact time with boarders, producing a boarder’s guide, bettering students’ access to help, and strengthening links between teaching and boarding staff. And we’ve lots more plans."

A mother of two, Nicola is looking forward to making a new home at the boarding school with her husband and family. She says her mission is to "attract, retain, empower and delight boarding pupils and their families – present and future - through standout pastoral care and boarding experience”.

Nicola, who boarded at school in Northern Ireland in the late 1990s, said: “Even with the political state the country was in, I always felt safe, very well cared for, and I owe everything to that experience for making me who I am today”.

Dallam School has also welcomed Marguerite Richards as the resident school nurse for the boarding students.

Marguerite, who previously worked with The Royal Ballet School in London, considers her role at Dallam to be immensely rewarding as she takes care of the health and wellbeing of the boarders.

Mr Henneberry said: "Both Marguerite and Nicola bring lots of expertise and experience that’s already paying dividends”.

For more information about boarding at Dallam School, interested individuals can visit the school's website, call 015395 63377, or email boardingadmissions@dallamschool.co.uk.