Dame Allan’s Schools appoints new principal

Newcastle-based independent school Dame Allan’s Schools has appointed Neil Seaton as its new principal, with the role set to begin in September.

Neil joins from Queen Elizabeth High School in Hexham, where he has been head of school for five years. 

He brings extensive experience across both the state and independent sectors, having begun his career at Dollar Academy in Scotland before moving to George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh. 

During a 15-year tenure at Heriot’s, he progressed to deputy head with responsibility for pastoral care and helped lead the school to become the first independent school in the UK to achieve UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School status.

Since relocating to the North East in 2019, Neil has overseen significant change at Queen Elizabeth’s, including leading the school through the Covid pandemic, a move to a new building in 2021 and a successful Ofsted inspection in 2024.

Neil, a history teacher, said: “I’m very much looking forward to taking up the position of principal at a significant time for the schools.

“I’ve known Dame Allan’s for years through its reputation – the exceptional care of its pupils, the wonderful breadth of co-curricular activities that define school life and its excellent teaching, which leads to outstanding examination results.

“I’m very aware that I’m joining the schools at a time of important change as it becomes fully co-educational. 

“Change brings opportunity, but it also requires care, understanding and strong leadership.

“I look forward to building thoughtfully on the strong foundations already in place, and on the excellent work of my predecessor, Will Scott.”

Neil, who is joining Dame Allan’s as it makes the transition to become fully co-educational in September, succeeds Will Scott, who will take up the role of headteacher at Churcher’s College in Hampshire.

David Arthur, chair of governors at Dame Allan’s Schools, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Neil to the schools following a rigorous and thorough search process. 

“We’re confident his experience, leadership and commitment to pastoral and academic excellence make him an excellent appointment for the schools.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →