In a recent episode of the LearnIt Podcast, Branksome Hall Principal Grace McCallum shared the story behind her leadership journey—from growing up in New Brunswick to leading one of Canada’s top independent schools for girls. The episode, titled “Principal Grace McCallum on Leading Innovation at Branksome Hall,” highlights McCallum’s unique blend of resilience and globally informed perspective.

Before becoming a Head of School, McCallum was working full-time hours as a teenager to help support her single mother and siblings. “I wouldn’t say my teachers would have predicted I’d become a Head of School,” she said. “But that work ethic, I carry it with me every day.”

Her international teaching and leadership experiences in China, Brazil and Germany shaped her values and vision. At just 28, while living in Beijing, she stepped into her first principalship after presenting a bold vision to her school’s board.

Now at Branksome Hall, McCallum has made listening central to her leadership, holding one-on-one meetings with nearly 200 employees in her first year. She’s also championing innovation through the school’s new iCAST facility—an entrepreneurship and innovation hub designed to build real-world skills through hands-on learning.

But for McCallum, change must be intentional. “Education swings on pendulums. You don’t abandon tradition—you honour it while designing for the future.” Her approach to diversity and inclusion is equally thoughtful. “Being diverse isn’t enough,” she said. “We need to make space for real civil discourse. Not just debate, but listening to understand.”

With humour, heart and high expectations, Grace McCallum is quietly transforming what school leadership can look like—one thoughtful conversation, bold initiative and early morning dog walk at a time.