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16 December 2025
The newest chapter for The Girls’ Schools Association: Jeanette Cochrane has been announced as the next Chief Executive, following Donna Stevens’ inspiring five years driving growth, research, and advocacy for girls’ education.
The Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) has announced the appointment of Jeanette Cochrane as its next Chief Executive. Jeanette will formally start in post at the start of 2026.
A former headteacher and executive leader, Jeanette brings wide-ranging education experience to the role. She has led in grammar, comprehensive, and integrated schools in England and Northern Ireland and worked internationally; she has experience of both the National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate. With an MBA in Educational Management, she combines strategic acumen with a deep commitment to inclusion, excellence, and empowering girls through education and leadership.
Jeanette says: “It’s an honour to join the Girls’ Schools Association as its new CEO and to lead such an exceptional network of Heads who champion girls, every day. This position has given me the opportunity to focus entirely on what I care about most – empowering girls and young women, and supporting the educational leaders who help them rise. Having spent my whole career in education, I’m proud to be part of an Association that stands for opportunity, aspiration, and the enduring power of girls-only education. I am excited to build upon Donna’s strong legacy with energy, purpose, and optimism to shape an equally brilliant future.”
The GSA has also paid a warm tribute to its outgoing Chief Executive, Donna Stevens, whose leadership over the past five years has redefined the Association’s voice and reach. Donna has championed evidence-led advocacy for girls’ schools; launching ground breaking research; amplifying GSA’s voice across national media; and forged strong partnerships that have strengthened its influence and impact. Under her direction, GSA has grown as a trusted authority on girls and girls’ education; establishing it as an Association that champions every girl’s potential and supports the headteachers who lift them up.
Donna says: “It has been an enormous privilege to lead the GSA and to represent such a remarkable network of schools and leaders. Together, we’ve built a stronger evidence base for girls’ education and created a more powerful, and more confident, platform for girls’ schools. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and excited to see the Association continue to go from strength to strength.”
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