Welcome to Carlisle School on the web. I hope the extensive information you find on our site will encourage you to visit and experience first-hand our academic programs, vibrant spirit of school life, and the true sense of community at Carlisle School.

Student-centered teaching, discovery-based learning, and a global perspective form the cornerstones of the Carlisle experience. Each day our passionate and dedicated teachers use innovative methods to share knowledge and connect with students. We partner with parents to help students discover their strengths, take risks, and contribute positively to our interconnected world. Carlisle offers a college preparatory program and is committed to preparing students for life in a global and complex society. Carlisle sets the standard in our region for an internationally focused education as the first independent school in Virginia to be authorized as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School from preschool through twelfth grade.

Exploring this website will give you a small taste of what makes our school unique. However, you will only truly sample the flavor of life at our school by visiting. I marvel at what our young people accomplish and how they love to learn at our school. They are imaginative, creative, and good citizens. We encourage you to come meet our students, talk with our highly qualified faculty, and ask questions of our current parents.

Discover the difference that Carlisle School will make for your family.

Warm regards,

Simon Owen-Williams
Headmaster

Biography

Simon Owen-Williams came to Carlisle School in 1998 serving as Upper School  Director. Prior to becoming Headmaster in 2004, he also served as the Dean of Students, Director of Development, and Admissions Director.

His 25+ years of independent school experience include administrative and teaching positions at Knox School in New York, and Tasis School in Switzerland. He was born in Wales, U.K.

Simon was an EE Ford Fellow in 2004 and currently serves on the Virginia Association of Independent School's (VAIS) Board of Trustees, as well as being an active member of the state accreditation and membership committees. He was instrumental in bringing the International Baccalaureate Programs to Carlisle School, and establishing a small residential and hosting program to the Martinsville campus. Under his leadership, the school has seen tremendous growth with the addition of the Danville campus in 2005, and the Chatham campus in 2010. He is married to Candace and has two daughters, Bronwyn and Gwenith, and three corgis.