An interview with Mr Graeme Hallam, Head of Newcastle School for Boys.
In April 2025, Graeme Hallam stepped into his new role as Head of Newcastle School for Boys, marking the beginning of a transformative era for the school and its co-educational future.
Having served as Deputy Head and then Head of Seniors, Mr Hallam was already a familiar and respected figure within the school community. Just two months into his headship, the school announced a bold and exciting change: from September 2026, it would become The Newcastle School, welcoming girls into the Junior School and Sixth Form, and expanding co-education to Years 7-11 by September 2027.
We sat down with Mr Hallam to discuss this landmark transition, the vision behind it, and what lies ahead for The Newcastle School.
Graeme, congratulations on your appointment. What inspired the decision to transition to a co-educational model?
Thank you. The decision to become co-educational is something that we have looking at as a school for some years now. It was driven by a desire to reflect the evolving needs of families and the wider community. We’ve always prided ourselves on being a nurturing, inclusive school, and opening our doors to girls allows us to extend that ethos. It’s about offering the same high-quality education and pastoral care to all children, regardless of gender, and creating a more dynamic, balanced learning environment.
What will make The Newcastle School unique in this new chapter?
Our size and philosophy are key. We’re intentionally small, which means every pupil is known and understood as an individual. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. That won’t change. You already see a high level of adaptive teaching and learning in our classrooms, allowing us to adapt to how each individual learns best. This will continue to be of great benefit to our pupils; both boys and girls.
What will evolve is the richness of our community. We’ll continue to offer a through-school experience from Early Years to Sixth Form, with small class sizes, expert teaching, and a broad co-curricular programme. From our extensive clubs programme to international travel and high-level sporting or artistic opportunities, we provide opportunities you’d expect from a much larger school, but within a closeknit, supportive setting.
What are you most excited about as the school becomes co-ed?
I’m excited about the energy and diversity this change will bring. Welcoming girls into our Junior School and Sixth Form in 2026, and then into the full Senior School in 2027, will enhance every aspect of school life, from classroom discussions to sports teams and performing arts. It’s a chance to build a truly inclusive community where every child can thrive, explore their interests, and develop the character traits we value: community, integrity, resilience, courage, empathy and leadership.
How will the school ensure a smooth transition for pupils and families?
We’ve planned this carefully. We’re already engaging with our families to help them understand what life at The Newcastle School will look like and we shall continue to do so throughout.
Our strong pastoral framework, and phased introduction of co-education mean that pupils will feel safe, seen, and supported from day one. We will be listening to pupil voice and addressing any questions or concerns they have directly. We’re also investing in staff training and facilities to ensure the highest standards of teaching and care.
For our new joiners, our admissions process is supportive and personal. We will be working closely with families to make our open days and assessment days a positive experience for all. We’ve been really pleased by the level of interest we have already received from girls.
What does success look like for The Newcastle School in the coming years?
Success will be seeing our pupils – boys and girls – flourish academically, socially, and personally. It’s about maintaining our excellent outcomes, continuing to send students onto the best pathway for them, whether onto top universities, apprenticeships sports careers or business, and seeing them grow into confident, compassionate young adults. But it’s also about the everyday moments; pupils feeling happy, supported, and making the most of every opportunity given to them at the school. If we can achieve that, then we’ve succeeded.
Finally, what message would you like to share with prospective families?
The Newcastle School will be more than a place of learning, it’s a community. Whether your child is joining us in Early Years or Sixth Form, they’ll be known, valued, and challenged to reach their own individual potential. We’re proud of our heritage and excited for our future. I warmly invite families to visit us, meet our staff and pupils, and discover what makes our school so special.
To learn more about admissions and open events, visit newcastleschool.co.uk
The school will be hosting assessment days for the Junior School on Friday 17th October and for Year 7 and Sixth Form on Saturday 17th January. Applications into other years groups are also welcomed.