Diana Vernon

Diana has enjoyed an extensive career in the educational sector with 24 years as a Head / Principal and CEO, prior to which she spent 10 years in academic publishing and Corporate Public Relations.  She has run day and boarding, single sex girls’ and co-ed, faith based and non-denominational schools in the UK, Australia and Hong Kong. 

Diana’s first Headship was at Woldingham School, a Catholic, girls’ boarding and day school in Surrey.  It was here that she oversaw her first significant building project, whilst developing the academic, pastoral and co-curricular programmes across the school. Diana was then appointed as Head of City of London School for Girls, an academically selective girls’ day school.  During her time as Head, CLSG topped the UK A Level league tables.  After 7 years in post at CLSG, Diana was appointed Principal and CEO of Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC) in Melbourne.   

MLC is recognised as one of Australia’s leading early years to secondary, day and boarding schools, renowned for its extensive and innovative curriculum, pastoral care and outstanding academic results.  Alongside a whole site school master-planning exercise, with a significant buildings programme, Diana’s focus was on the educational experience of students.

After 9 years in Melbourne, and over 20 years in Headship, Diana decided a new career beckoned but not before she was asked to become interim Principal and CEO of Kellett School, the British International School in Hong Kong.  Her focus was on re-building community and culture following the online years of COVID, aligned with providing a seamless transition between two principals.  On completing her contract, she returned to her position as Educational Adviser and Director on the Board of Kellett.  

Diana has previously been a governor for prep and secondary, maintained sector and independent sector schools across the UK.  She was also Chair of the London Fee Assistance Group of Schools, Vice-Chair of the Independent Schools Examinations Board and was an ISI Inspector for a number of years prior to her relocation to Australia.   

Diana is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and a Level 3 accredited organisational coach, through IECL (Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership. Diana is now based in the UK and joined RSAcademics in 2024.