Loreto School Queenswood is proud to welcome Henda Barnard as Principal.

​

With more than 35 years of experience in education, including 12 years of dedicated service at Loreto, she brings deep institutional knowledge, strong leadership and a steady commitment to academic excellence and values-based education.

​

Her leadership reflects our belief that every child should be known, guided and prepared for the future.

​

Experience and leadership

​

Henda holds a Bachelor of Primary Education (BPrim Ed) from the University of Pretoria and has professional training across Foundation Phase through Senior Phase education.

 

During her time at Loreto, she has served in key leadership roles including:

•  Head of Department - Intermediate and Senior Phase
•  Head of Discipline and Leadership
•  Acting Head of Department - Sport, Culture and Guidance

​

Her experience places her at the centre of both the academic and pastoral life of the school.

​

A steady, values-driven approach

​

“Effective primary school leadership is about providing steady, values-driven direction that balances academic excellence, pastoral care and sound governance,” she says.

​

“Children need consistency, a strong sense of belonging and clear boundaries in order to grow with confidence.”

​

Under her leadership, Loreto’s Catholic ethos, safeguarding commitment and high academic standards remain firmly in place, while strengthening:

• Staff development
• Operational efficiency
• Alignment between learner wellness and academic performance

​

Continuity with purpose

​

Having served the Queenswood and Pretoria East community for decades, Loreto’s leadership transition ensures continuity while positioning the school for sustainable growth.

​

“I lead with heart, integrity and clarity,” Ms Barnard explains, “balancing discipline, compassion and strategic thinking to ensure stability and excellence for every child.”

​

Discover the Loreto difference

​

We invite prospective families to learn more about our structured, values-based educational journey from Preschool to Grade 7.