Catherine is the Director of the Schools Placement team. With many years’ experience in the independent sector, she has an unrivalled understanding of boarding schools and the London day school sector. She has had many articles published in national magazines and newspapers and her opinion is regularly sought by educational journalists. Catherine also heads up the Gabbitas corporate client team advising partners and senior corporate executives on the best choice of school for their children.

Educated at St Mary’s, Cambridge and St Mary’s, Ascot, Catherine went on to run Boxford House Language School, originally founded by her mother, The Lady Hilda Swan. Catherine joined Gabbitas in 2002. She has three children, all of whom attended independent boarding schools and are currently at university. Catherine has been a guardian to several overseas students at school in the UK.

Charlotte has a wealth of experience in the independent schools sector. Her understanding of the top schools, both at preparatory and senior level led her to founding First Eleven magazine.

Charlotte has visited an enormous number of schools and has first-hand experience of those that she advises on. Through her extensive contacts with schools and their staff, she is very well placed to pass on her knowledge and she offers a unique and detailed approach to those she advises.

Penny has held senior leadership posts in prestigious London day schools for many years and has also been the Head of country boarding schools. Her current knowledge of the Independent schools sector is excellent and she consults widely on all aspects of the market.

As well as UK consultancy, Penny also heads up the Overseas Placements Service, advising overseas clients on the best boarding schools for their children.

Deirdre’s calm and knowledgeable approach to the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN) advice is much valued. She has a wealth of knowledge in this area, and her main aim is to enable families to develop a clearer understanding of what support there is available for their child. She guides families through the minefield of options to make the right school choice.

She has two children who attended independent schools, has a good knowledge of private education in the UK and particularly schools catering for Special Needs. She is also a French and Spanish speaker.

Darshna is usually the initial point of contact on our schools placement team and her comprehensive knowledge of the department and schools ensures that she guides each client to the consultant that will best suit their needs.