Grace’s appointment follows a comprehensive international search process, informed by extensive community consultations. With the full support of the Principal Search Committee and the Board of Governors, Grace will join us on July 1, 2024 as the next visionary leader for Branksome Hall.

 

Grace is a Canadian with nearly two decades of experience teaching in and leading International Baccalaureate schools across four continents. She has an extensive track record in the areas of academic excellence, strategic planning, fund development, partnerships, master planning and building projects. She is also a strong community-builder, forward-thinker and an educator at heart, with a passion for girls’ education. 

 

Grace is coming to Branksome from the role of Principal at the American School of Brasilia in Brazil, an IB school with nearly 700 students. Prior to joining the American School of Brasilia, Grace held senior academic leadership roles at the Frankfurt International School, a founding and leading IB school; at the Canadian International School of Beijing, China; and she began her career as a public school teacher in New Brunswick. She is a board member of Pioneering Schools and the Association of American Schools in Brazil (AASB).

 

“I am honoured to have been chosen as Branksome Hall’s 8th Principal,” says Grace McCallum. “Branksome has a proud history as a girls’ independent school leader, nationally and internationally. While I may have the mindset of a leader, I am a teacher at heart – students will always be at the centre of my decision-making and purpose. I am looking forward to returning to Canada and joining this strong community in shaping the school’s innovative and bold plans for the future.”

 

Grace will succeed Karen Jurjevich as Principal and will lead a deeply experienced, passionate and talented team. The leadership team will ensure Branksome advances our mission and strategy in a dynamic and changing educational landscape that builds on this strong foundation of leadership.

 

In appointing Grace, Branksome is also welcoming her husband Chris and their two daughters, Lila and Avery. Grace and her husband Chris are excited about their return to Canada – they are from New Brunswick and proud Maritimers. 

 

The school is planning several opportunities for the broader Branksome community to meet Grace prior to her arrival next year and looks forward to welcoming her to campus in July 2024.