School News

Morrison’s Academy has announced the appointment of Mrs Catherine Precious as its new Rector, marking a significant milestone in the 166-year history of the Perthshire school as the first woman to lead the institution since its founding by philanthropist Thomas Morrison.

Mrs Precious begins her leadership at the start of the new academic term and joins Morrison’s Academy from Jersey College for Girls, where she served as Vice Principal and Headteacher of the preparatory school.

Her career spans senior leadership roles across both UK and international education, including schools in the north of England and four years as an Ofsted Inspector. She also served as Executive Headteacher for the Ta’allum Group in Qatar, where she led school development within an international network. She holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship and continues to engage in advanced leadership development.

The appointment comes as the Crieff-based day school continues to build on its strong academic reputation while evolving to meet the needs of a modern, forward-looking education. The school cites her expertise in school improvement, curriculum development and leadership of whole-school strategy as central to its next phase.
She succeeds Mr Andrew McGarva who leaves the school after five years in post to take up the position of Principal at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts.

Mrs Precious, who has already begun meeting pupils, staff and families as she starts to shape her vision for the years ahead, said: “I am delighted to have joined Morrison’s Academy at such an important moment in its long and distinguished history. It is a privilege to lead a school with such a strong sense of community, academic excellence and commitment to the development of every young person. I look forward to working with pupils, staff and families as we build on the school’s many strengths and look ahead to the future together.”

Donald McDonald, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Morrison’s Academy, added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Catherine Precious as the new Rector of Morrison’s Academy. She brings a wealth of experience, a clear commitment to excellence and a proven track record of leadership in both the UK and internationally. We are confident she is exceptionally well placed to lead the school into its next chapter while preserving the values and traditions that define Morrison’s Academy.”