Welcome to Queen’s College Preparatory School from our Co‑Heads Georgia Habanananda and Ailsa Buddle
At Queen’s College Prep School, we believe that every child flourishes when she is known, nurtured and encouraged to be boldly curious. Our school, nestled in the heart of Portland Place in central London, is a joyful community where girls feel confident to explore.
With a long and proud heritage, and the added benefit of being linked to Queen’s College, London, one of Spear's top 100 independent schools in the world, we equip girls with the knowledge, character and curiosity they need to thrive - wherever their senior school ambitions may lead them. Our commitment to exceptional pastoral care comes from our knowledge that when a child feels happy, safe and supported, she can achieve anything.
As Co‑Heads of the Prep School, we are delighted to welcome you.
A Message from Ailsa Buddle
My path to education began at the University of Birmingham, where I completed a joint honours degree in Hispanic Studies and Drama, followed by a PGCE specialising in Spanish at Nottingham Trent University. Over my years teaching in schools all around Nottingham and then London, I have had the privilege of working across all year groups, with particular focus on preparing pupils for key exam years and the exciting transition to senior school.
Before joining Queen’s College Prep School in 2014, I was Head of Modern Foreign Languages. During my time at QCPS I have been Head of English then Head of Prep before becoming Deputy Head Academic in 2021. Throughout my career, I have been driven by the belief that every child deserves to feel confident in their abilities and inspired in their learning. Academic excellence isn’t simply about results but is about developing independent, determined thinkers who embrace challenge and are ready for whatever future they choose.
Fluent in Spanish (with a little Portuguese and French too), and a lifelong lover of literature, film, and theatre, I’m passionate about fostering creativity, curiosity and global awareness in the classroom. Outside of school, you’ll find me exploring nature - on coastal paths, hill walks, or in our wonderful London parks - with my two and half year old son and seven year old daughter, or happily immersed in a good book whenever I get the chance!
A Message from Georgia Habanananda
Originally from Sydney, Australia, I began my career after completing a Bachelor of Arts/Education before moving to London. I have since taught across a range of communities, including Islington, Tower Hamlets and Hackney, and across all prep year groups from EYFS to Form VI. Each stage brings something unique, and I value the different strengths and personalities that children develop as they grow. These experiences have shaped my commitment to inclusive, engaging and multi-sensory learning that enables every child to feel confident and succeed.
Most recently, I completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) Dyslexia, a master’s level qualification. This specialist training allows me to support pupils with dyslexia and other learning differences through careful assessment and tailored teaching, helping each child to build confidence, independence and a genuine sense of achievement.
My years as Head of Inclusion and Deputy Head at QCPS, where I supported children with additional needs, guiding families, and leading on safeguarding and emotional wellbeing, have shaped my belief that pastoral care is the essence of a truly great school. At Queen’s College Prep School, it is a privilege to work alongside families to ensure each girl feels seen, supported and empowered to excel.
Since joining QCPS as Head of Learning Support in 2019, I have relished the opportunity to champion pupils’ strengths and celebrate the wonderful diversity of talents in our community. Outside of school, I enjoy long weekend walks, practising French, keeping fit and spending time with friends. My two children, now 16 and 13, and my partner keep life busy and full.
Our Vision as Co-Heads
Together, we are committed to:
- Championing the whole child: her wellbeing, her passions, her potential.
- Cultivating curiosity that drives deep learning.
- Fostering a warm, inclusive community where every girl feels known and valued.
- Preparing pupils for the next steps with confidence, whether they continue to Queen’s College, London or venture to a different senior school.
- Ensuring QCPS remains a place of joy, ambition and opportunity.
Queen’s College Prep School is a remarkable place and we are thrilled to lead it together.
We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our community.
Georgia Habanananda and Ailsa Buddle
Co‑Heads of Queen’s College Preparatory School
