Dear Wesley Community,
On behalf of the College Council, I am delighted to announce that after an extensive recruitment process, we have unanimously selected Mr Ross Barron to be the next Head of Wesley College.
As the 8th Head of College, Mr Barron will begin his five-year appointment in January 2019, through to our 100th anniversary year in 2023.
Mr Barron quickly asserted his candidacy during the selection processes, demonstrating a track record of transformational leadership success throughout his career, a deep faith and a readiness to step up to a Head of College role.
A proud West Australian, Mr Barron is currently the Head of Senior School at Hale School in Perth, a position he has held since 2009. He is a highly effective, focussed and experienced leader, providing strategic direction and overseeing day-to-day operation of the Senior School.
In his role he has contributed to innovative restructures, including reforming and improving curriculum, boarding and pastoral care systems. He has been an instrumental team member in building a secure, financially sound foundation for Hale. His many achievements include implementing $47 million in capital work projects, including the Aquatic Centre, Forrest Library and the expansion of high-impact teaching classrooms.
When first meeting Mr Barron, what immediately resonated with us was the strong alignment between his values, the Council’s values and the culture and ethos of Wesley. Like all of us, he is absolutely committed to individual student success — wherever their dreams lead them. He is genuine, fair and sets high expectations, believing students thrive when they give their best in everything they do.
In addition to his diverse operational and leadership experience, Mr Barron has built his skills through further education. In 2000 he attained a Master of Education to supplement his Bachelor of Arts (Education) and Bachelor of Education (Physical/Outdoor Education). He is also an active member of many professional forums, serving as Public Schools Association Committee Chair as well as holding leadership roles in numerous professional education bodies. His teaching career began at the Christian Brothers’ College Fremantle where he rose to the Deputy Headmaster position before joining Hale School as Director of Sport in 2003.
His sporting achievements are significant, as a coach, athlete and official. He was named the Subiaco WAFL Junior Coach of the Year, was a member of the Australian Institute of Sport Hockey Squad, and Australian Under 21 Team World Cup member, along with many other positions with various other sporting bodies.
In welcoming Mr Barron, the College Council would again like to pay tribute to Mr David Gee who has successfully led Wesley College for the past 15 years. His legacy will resonate through our community and our students’ lives for decades to come. Throughout the remainder of the year there will be many opportunities for all of us to thank and farewell David, as we acknowledge and celebrate his achievements.
Please join me, together with the Council, in extending the warmest of Wesley welcomes to Ross, his wife, Narelle and their children Abbey and Mitchell.
Yours sincerely,
Jim Walker
Council Chair
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