Deputy Head Pastoral
Mrs. Melanie Gilbert
Melanie began her career at St Hilda’s School in Bushey, an independent prep school for girls aged 3-11. During her time at the school, she held the roles of Head of House and Assessment Coordinator as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, which provided her with a strong foundation in pastoral care and teaching and learning. Melanie also led the school in becoming one of the pioneer schools for Empathy Lab, an organisation that uses literature to build children’s empathy, helping them to understand others and contribute to a kinder society. She was appointed as Deputy Head of St Hilda’s School in September 2022 and joined St. Helen’s College in 2025. Melanie is passionate about creating opportunities for every child to flourish, placing their wellbeing and pastoral care at the heart of everything she does. Outside of work, she enjoys running, going to the theatre, dog walking, reading and travelling.