Gordonstoun is proud to announce the appointment of Natasha Dangerfield as Founding Principal of Gordonstoun Japan.
Friday 10 April 2026
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Gordonstoun Japan is proud to announce the appointment of Natasha Dangerfield, British Educational Leader and England Lacrosse President, as its Founding Principal. This landmark appointment marks a significant milestone as the school prepares to open its doors in Wakayama in September 2027 |
A leader Who Lives the Ethos
Natasha Dangerfield is a distinguished British educator with over 20 years of senior leadership experience in prestigious independent boarding schools. Her appointment is uniquely significant as Natasha does not just understand the Gordonstoun philosophy; she has lived it.
Early in her career, Natasha held pivotal roles at Gordonstoun School in Scotland, serving as both a Housemistress and Director of Pastoral Care. This direct experience ensures that the founding principles of Gordonstoun - character through challenge, responsibility, and service - will be woven into the very fabric of the Japan campus from day one.
Proven Excellence in School Leadership
Most recently, Natasha served for 13 years as the Headmistress of Westonbirt School (UK). Under her visionary leadership, the school saw significant educational development, the successful transition to co-education, and the strengthening of a world-class pastoral care system. Her tenure was defined by a commitment to holistic student wellbeing and strategic institutional growth.
Leadership Pillars Include:
- Character Education: Fostering resilience through real-world challenges.
- Pastoral Excellence: Prioritising student mental health and emotional growth.
- Experiential Learning: Utilising the "classroom under the stars" to build life skills.
- Purpose-Driven Community: Cultivating a values-led environment where students thrive.
Masakuni Negishi, Chairman of the Board, Gordonstoun Japan said
"This appointment ensures that Gordonstoun Japan is not merely an interpretation of a British brand, but a true continuation of its founding legacy - Natasha embodies the Gordonstoun spirit. She is a leader who understands that education is about unlocking the potential within every child."
Natasha Dangerfield added
"It is a profound honor to be appointed as the Founding Principal of Gordonstoun Japan. Gordonstoun is a place where young people, and staff, discover their 'plus est en vous' (there is more in you); the valued motto held carefully in the tradition of the school.
"I am thrilled to bring this transformative educational model to Japan and to build a community where students are prepared not just for university, but for life."
To find out more about Gordonstoun Japan, the campus, application process and their Summer Impact Challenges, visit Gordonstoun Japan
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