The Whanganui Collegiate School Board of Trustees and the Whanganui College Board are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Ainsley Robson as the School’s new Headmaster.

Mr Robson will take up the role at the beginning of Term 2, 2026, succeeding Wayne Brown, who announced his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 school year. The Boards also acknowledge and thank Tash Bullock, who is serving as Acting Headmaster for Term 1, 2026.

Mr Robson brings to Whanganui Collegiate School a blend of deep educational leadership experience and senior operational expertise. Most recently, he served as Global Chief of Operations at Writer’s Toolbox, an international education technology organisation, where he was responsible for organisational operations, strategy, and growth across New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Prior to this, Mr Robson served for nine years as Associate Headmaster at St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton. During that time, he also undertook three extended periods as Acting Headmaster, totalling more than one year. Earlier in his career, he was Deputy Principal at Fraser High School, where he developed strong foundations in curriculum leadership, pastoral systems, and school-wide improvement.

Mr Robson’s previous leadership experience reflects several characteristics shared with Whanganui Collegiate School, including a broad rural and urban reach, a co-educational structure, a strong boarding tradition, and a faith-based approach to education. His experience across these contexts was a key factor in his appointment.

Sara Ross, Presiding Member of the School Board of Trustees, said Mr Robson was a standout choice among a strong field of applicants following an extensive search across New Zealand and internationally.

“Ainsley was a standout. He demonstrated clear strategic thinking, a deep understanding of boarding education, and a leadership style that aligns strongly with the School’s values and traditions. His experience across both the education and commercial sectors, combined with his integrity and ambition, positions him well to lead the School into its next chapter.”

Mr Robson said he was honoured by his appointment.

“It is a tremendous privilege to be appointed Headmaster and Executive Director at Whanganui Collegiate School. I have a deep respect for the School’s long-standing traditions and its rich heritage. I am excited about joining the Whanganui community and working alongside staff, students, and families to strengthen the School’s boarding, academic, co-curricular, wellbeing and pastoral offerings, and to ensure that Whanganui Collegiate School remains as a leading regional, national and international school of choice for students and their families.”

Mr Robson holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership (Hon), a Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Secondary), and a Bachelor of Science (Technology) from the University of Waikato.

He will relocate to Whanganui with his wife, Allanah, and their two children, Lizzy and Couper, and the family will reside on site in the Headmaster’s House.

Media enquiries
Sara Ross
Presiding Member
Whanganui Collegiate School Board of Trustees
Phone: 027 553 9793
Email: sara.ross@collegiate.school.nz
Website: collegiate.school.nz