“His vision, foresight, energy and unwavering commitment have shaped the school we know today.
“Just as importantly, his genuine care for and support of our boys, their families and our staff has been exceptional.”
King’s School headmaster Tony Sissons will retire next year. Photo / Michael Craig
During Sissons’ tenure, the school’s roll had grown, and significant investment had been made in its Remuera campus, Fletcher said.
That included new and upgraded sports facilities, art and science laboratories and the Centennial Building, which featured modern classrooms, breakout spaces and music rooms.
Sissons had also been a driving force behind the school’s new performing arts facility, which is due to open formally in February, months before his departure.
The school credited Sissons with introducing a mindfulness programme and a comprehensive music curriculum, as well as moving to a longer school day.
The change allowed inter-school sports fixtures to take place without compromising other specialist programmes offered by the school.
He also played a key role in introducing the Endeavour Scholarship programme, Fletcher said.
Sissons would leave the school in a strong position.
“It has been a privilege working with him, and we are immensely grateful for everything he has achieved and for the leadership he has provided over the past 24 years.”
Fletcher said Sissons had also contributed to the wider New Zealand education sector through industry board positions and mentoring other school heads.
A board sub-committee had been established to oversee the appointment of a new headmaster.
Fletcher said the school expected Sissons to remain connected to the community after his retirement as an honorary old boy.
“We will greatly value the final year of Tony’s leadership.”
Rachel Maher is the education correspondent for the New Zealand Herald. She also covers other topics such as Auckland issues, crime and local government. She started at the Herald as a breaking news journalist in 2022.
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