Meet the Junior School Leadership Team
At the heart of our Nursery and Primary School is a dedicated leadership team committed to creating an inspiring and supportive environment for every child. Together, they bring a wealth of experience, energy and expertise to ensure that each student thrives both academically and socially. As our Junior School comes together on one site, this close collaboration will further enhance learning and teaching, allowing us to share ideas and expertise more seamlessly than ever before. Meet the team who guide and shape daily life across our Junior School.
Mike Kane, Head of Junior School
Mike has led the ESMS Junior School for the past ten years, following twelve years as Head of Upper School at Stewart’s Melville College. Originally from Northern Ireland, Mike began his career as an English teacher and Housemaster. His deep understanding of the journey our Junior School student take, from Nursery through to Senior School, gives him a unique perspective as the Junior School unites on one site. He lives in Edinburgh with his wife Lesley, a Primary teacher, their three children, and their labrador, Blue.
Rhona Watt, Head of Nursery
Rhona, our longest-serving team member with 34 years and counting, leads our Nursery and Wraparound Care provision with her trademark creativity and care, and she is a friendly and familiar face for many of our families. Her vision helped shape the bespoke Play Centre at New Ravelston, designed as a ‘home from home’ for our youngest learners. Passionate about Early Years education, Rhona continues to guide staff and support families with warmth and expertise as we move to our new site. She loves being outdoors, whether this is on foot or on a pair of skis. She also enjoys reconnecting with former Nursery children, many of whom are now returning as parents themselves.
Alison Lydon, Senior Deputy Head (Wellbeing)
Alison has been part of the School community for 25 years and will lead our strategic approach to wellbeing in the Junior School when we move to our new site. Currently overseeing Early Years (Nursery–P3), she will retain responsibility for Nursery and Primary 1 while championing wellbeing across the school. Her varied experience, from class teacher to Head of Digital Learning, gives her a deep understanding of both academic and pastoral life. Energetic and empathetic, Alison is passionate about helping every child feel valued and supported. Beyond school, she plays and umpires netball, serves as a school governor in York and trustee for the Chesney Trust, and enjoys time with her husband and two alumni children.
Martin Harkins, Deputy Head (Student Support)
Martin joined the School five years ago and has been part of the Junior School leadership team for four. From 2026, he will oversee Student Support for Primary 2–4, working closely with staff and families to ensure each child’s success and wellbeing. Known for his thoughtful and approachable style, Martin believes strongly in partnership with parents and is looking forward to getting to know more children and families across the Junior School. At home, life revolves around his family and two young sons, and when time allows, he can be found in the gym, or enjoying a well-earned slice of cake afterwards.
Jill Roxburgh, Deputy Head (Student Support)
Jill has been part of our school community for 28 years. She joined the Junior School in 1997 as a Class Teacher and a Tutor in the Boarding House, which eventually became her home for a number of years. Her focus from 2026 will be on Student Support for Primary 5–6, working with colleagues to help every child feel confident, safe and valued. Jill also serves as a Child Protection Co-ordinator and runs several co-curricular clubs, including netball and indoor curling. She also enjoys home renovation projects, gardening and yoga, and brings balance and energy to her work with children and families.
Chris Watson, Senior Deputy Head (Teaching and Learning)
Chris joined the School in 2022 and leads teaching and learning across the Junior School, focusing on curriculum development and high-quality classroom experiences. Previously Deputy Head Academic at a British international school in Qatar, Chris brings broad experience from both state and private sectors. From 2026, he will also oversee Primary 7, helping ensure a smooth transition to Senior School. A passionate educator and advocate for staff development, Chris also has a daughter in P7 and a son in S2. Outside of school, he’s a keen (if self-described “contemplative”) runner around his hometown of Dunfermline.
Jane Hewitt, Deputy Head (Pupil Experience and Operations)
Jane has been part of our School community for 22 years, serving as class teacher, Year Group Leader and Assistant Head. In her role as Deputy Head, she oversees pupil experience and operations, ensuring that every child benefits from a wide and engaging range of activities. She is particularly excited about the opportunities our move to Ravelston will bring for extra-curricular life and community connection. Originally from Hong Kong and a St Andrews graduate, Jane has taught in the UK and abroad, bringing a rich perspective to her work. Away from school, she enjoys time at home on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne with her husband and therapy dog Betty, playing music, wild swimming and creative pursuits.