King's College has announced the appointment of Patrick Gale as the next headmaster.
King's College has announced the appointment of Patrick Gale as the next headmaster.
Prestigious Auckland private school King’s College has announced its new headmaster after an “extensive search” across New Zealand and internationally.
Gale will start in January 2026,after more than eight years as principal of Rangitoto College, New Zealand’s largest secondary school.
King’s College Board chair Shan Wilson said Gale was a standout candidate with extensive experience in education.
“He is also a prominent and respected figure in New Zealand education, including as chair of the NCEA Professional Advisory Group to the Ministry of Education which is playing a significant part in shaping national policy on qualifications and assessment,” Wilson said.
Patrick Gale has been announced as the new headmaster of King’s College. Photo / Jason Oxenham
Gale said it was a “tremendous honour” to be appointed headmaster of King’s College.
“I have deep respect for the school’s long-standing traditions and its rich heritage, which have been shaped by the legacy of past students, teachers and leaders.
“I am eager to collaborate with the talented King’s community to build on this strong foundation and guide the school into its next chapter in delivering the best all-round education.”
Before Rangitoto College, Gale was the principal of Kaipara College in Helensville, where he oversaw significant improvements in student achievement and in Education Review Office (ERO) assessment, the board letter said.
Lamb had a quarter of a century of experience as a school leader, including 22 years as a principal and 10 years at King’s College.
King's College principal Simon Lamb says the private Anglican school has been "overwhelmed" with enrolment interest. Photo / Supplied
Lamb plans to start his own consultancy to support and nurture school leaders after he leaves.
Jaime Lyth is a multimedia journalist for the New Zealand Herald, focusing on crime and breaking news. Lyth began working under the NZ Herald masthead in 2021 as a reporter for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei.
