Welcoming two new Governors to The Royal Ballet School
We are pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to The Royal Ballet School’s Board of Governors.
Jillian Barker and Isabel Mortimer have been appointed to The Royal Ballet School’s Board, each of them bringing a wealth of experience in the arts, education and philanthropic sectors.
Each appointee brings a considerable depth and breadth of experience: Jillian Barker, who joins as an accomplished leader and advocate for arts education; and Isabel Mortimer, an experienced performance coach and leadership facilitator.
On the new appointments, Natasha Kaplinsky, Chair of The Royal Ballet School, said:
‘We are pleased to welcome Jillian and Isabel as Governors of The Royal Ballet School. Both appointments bring valuable experience and expertise, each sharing our commitment to providing artistic excellence, access and opportunity for talented young dancers, while ensuring the School’s operational and financial sustainability for the future. Together with our existing Governors, they will play a crucial role in driving the School’s artistic, educational, student welfare, financial and development agendas as we enter our second century. I am confident their skills and knowledge will greatly benefit The Royal Ballet School, and I look forward to working with them at this important time.’
Jillian Barker
Jillian Barker is a sector leader in arts education, working at the intersection of artistic excellence and social impact. She has held senior leadership roles across arts organisations of national and international significance, including English Touring Opera, Arts Council England, the Barbican Centre, the National Gallery and, most recently, the Royal Ballet and Opera.
Jillian led Learning and Participation at the Royal Ballet and Opera for 12 years, transforming it into a national programme with a five-fold increase in engagement. She brings extensive knowledge of the arts, education, funding and policy landscapes, alongside a strong commitment to inspiring creativity and broadening access to ballet and opera for young people.
A passionate advocate for arts education, Jillian actively campaigns with local and national government for every child to have access to high-quality arts education throughout their school life. She is particularly committed to creating opportunities for diverse young talent to develop and thrive.
In 2024, Jillian achieved an Executive Certificate in Public Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School, building on her extensive experience of leading change and creating social impact through the arts.
Isabel Mortimer
Isabel Mortimer is an experienced performance coach and leadership facilitator, specialising in leadership development, cultural change and positive team dynamics. She brings extensive experience across the arts, education, business and charitable sectors, supporting organisations and individuals to develop their potential and achieve positive change.
Isabel began her career as a performer, working with some of Europe’s leading directors and performing principal roles in London’s West End and on Broadway. She went on to become Resident Director of Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures Dance Company, where she coached and mentored performers and colleagues across the organisation.
A Fellow of the Clore Leadership Programme, Isabel now works as a coach and facilitator for the programme, supporting the development of transformational leaders. She is also Director of Coaching for Dancers’ Career Development, helping professional dancers navigate the transition from performance into new careers. Her clients and collaborators have included the BBC, British Airways, Arts Council England, The Royal Opera House, The Royal National Theatre, Sadler’s Wells, The Royal Ballet and The Royal Ballet School.
Isabel is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach and Organisational Relationship and Systems Coach, and an ILM Certified Supervisor for Coaches. She is passionate about helping people realise their potential and create positive impact through purposeful, collaborative leadership.
Bridget Clark is the Marketing and Communications Manager at The Royal Ballet School and joined the School in 2024. She enjoys sharing the untold stories of the School and its students, and updating the wider arts community with news, events and announcements.
