HEADMASTER Eugene du Toit is leaving Wellington School at the end of the summer term.

Mr Toit, who has led Wellington since 2019, is taking up the post of master of Haileybury, one of The Times' ‘Best UK Independent Schools 2024’.

Before Wellington, Mr du Toit was senior deputy head at Trinity School, Croydon.

A Wellington School spokesperson said he has "extensive strategic development experience, as well as an impressive academic and pastoral leadership background".

READ MORE: Eugene du Toit appointed headmaster at Wellington School.

They added: "His sound business acumen and strategic approach has enabled him to navigate the school through the tricky waters of Covid, strengthen the overall provision, restructure the house and pastoral system and significantly increase the number on roll, as well as being awarded 'Excellent in all areas. in the recent 2023 ISI Inspection Report."

The school has been shortlisted for and won several prestigious awards during his tenure and Mr du Toit was shortlisted for the TES Headteacher of the Year 2023 award.

With his wife Angela and their two young daughters, the du Toit family have thrown themselves into Wellington School life and been valuable and lively members of the community.

Chairman of the governing body Anna Govey said: “Eugene has been an outstanding headmaster and has been instrumental in overseeing and implementing many new developments.

"Under Eugene’s outstanding leadership since 2019, the school has gone from strength to strength, significantly increasing the number on roll during troubled times.

"We are hugely grateful for all that has been done under Eugene’s stewardship.

"The education environment is facing a time of change and, while a new head will help us to navigate that change, our ethos, culture and core values will remain steadfast and of profound importance. The special essence of the Sshool will continue to flourish.

"The school is in excellent heart and we are proud of the strength of the boarding community and pastoral care, and the beauty of the campus.

READ MORE: Eugene du Toit takes up his post at Wellington School.

"The pursuit of excellence in both academic achievement and in a wealth of opportunities beyond the classroom is accompanied by an equal focus on wellbeing and the happiness of our pupils.”

Ms Govey added: “Governors will be seeking a successor with the vision and credentials to lead Wellington through the next stage of its development.

"We are looking for experienced candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and expect to make an appointment by Easter.

“We thank Eugene for all his hard work over the past years and wish him and his family the very best in his future career at Haileybury.”