The Girls’ Learning Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Emily Tofield to the Board of Trustees as Chair Designate to succeed our current Chair Sandy Gillett when she steps down from the role in December 2025.

Through a competitive recruitment process, the panel interviewed a number of excellent candidates and recommended that Emily be appointed to join the Board as a Trustee and Chair Designate for an initial four year-term. Emily is an experienced non-executive who has held senior leadership roles across UK government, local government, higher education, the media, and the global commercial sector. For more than two decades, she has been a chief adviser on strategy, communications, corporate affairs, reputation, marketing, fundraising and transformation, having led major structural and cultural change in some of the UK’s largest, most complex institutions. She lives in Kent with her family and is passionate about work that improves lives.

Dr. Thomas Flynn, Chief Executive of the Girls’ Learning Trust said “I’m delighted that Emily is joining us, as we now complete one of the most significant elements of our governance renewal. Emily demonstrated real passion for all girls education and it was clear during the recruitment how much the role means to her.”

On being appointed, Emily Tofield said “I was fortunate to have benefited from an outstanding girls’ school education, and I remain a passionate advocate for the value of all-girls education, particularly the importance of preserving and strengthening this choice within our state system.   Education continues to be one of the best ways to open doors and drive social mobility, and the Girls’ Learning Trust’s mission - to transform lives through girls’ education - remains as vital as ever.

“As the Trust enters its second decade, with a renewed strategy and ambition, it’s a great privilege to be take up the role of Chair Designate.  I look forward to working with the Chief Executive, Trust Board colleagues, and all GLT staff to ensure more girls have access to the exceptional education this Trust offers.”

Sandy Gillett, the Trust’s outgoing Chair added “I have really enjoyed my time as Chair of the Girls’ Learning Trust and to have worked with some amazing and dedicated staff. The opportunities and education available to our students is tremendous and it is wonderful to see them thriving in our schools.   After more than ten years it is time to move on and I am delighted to leave the role of chair in the very capable hands of Emily, our chair designate.  I will be working closely with Emily and Tom, our CEO, over the next term to ensure a smooth transition.”

You can read more about all of our Trust Board members here.