Saskia van Schalkwyk has led Exeter Junior School since 2019. As Head, she shapes daily life for every pupil in our independent junior school in Exeter. Having previously been an inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), she brings a clear, outside view of what the best schools do well.
Saskia grew up in Devon and attended West Buckland School in the north of the county. After leaving school, she moved to Roehampton to train as a teacher. There, she earned a BA QTS in science, maths and sports science. That combination gave her a strong grounding in both academic and active learning.
Before coming to Exeter, Saskia built her career in independent prep schools in Kent. First, she served as designated safeguarding lead and head of pastoral at St Michael’s Preparatory School. In those roles, she made sure every child felt safe, known and supported. Later, she moved to The Granville School, a girls’ school in Kent, as Deputy Head. There, she helped lead the school’s staff, curriculum and day-to-day running.
Today, that pastoral and safeguarding experience sits at the heart of her approach at Exeter Junior School. Parents can expect a Head who treats wellbeing as seriously as academic progress. In addition, her ISI work keeps her close to current best practice across the independent sector. She knows exactly what inspectors look for in teaching, safeguarding and pupil development. Consequently, she can hold our junior school to the highest standards with confidence.
Saskia’s move to Exeter also brought her back to her Devon roots. She returned with her family, and her two children both attend Exeter School. So she sees school life from both sides, as a Head and as a parent. That perspective helps her understand what families want from a primary education in Devon.
Exeter School is a co-educational school for ages 3 to 18. This means children can stay with us right through their education. Saskia works closely with colleagues across the whole school to make each stage feel connected.
Would you like to meet Saskia and see Exeter Junior School for yourself? Book a visit and find out more about life here.
