Our New Headmaster

Wellesley Haddon Dene Welcomes New Headmaster, Chris Brown

Broadstairs, Kent, 1st September 2026

Wellesley Haddon Dene is delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Brown as its new Headmaster, marking an exciting new chapter for our thriving independent school. 

Chris brings more than fifteen years of experience in independent and preparatory education. He joins Wellesley Haddon Dene from St Lawrence College, where he most recently served as Deputy Head of College with responsibility for the Junior School. In this role, he provided strategic and operational leadership across teaching and learning, pastoral care, safeguarding, staff development, and parental engagement. 

During his career at St Lawrence College, Chris held a number of additional leadership responsibilities, including History Lead, Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Lead, and Year 6 Residential and Learning Outside the Classroom Lead. He also helped lead the Junior School through its 2026 ISI inspection. 

Chris is a passionate advocate for a broad and ambitious education that extends well beyond the classroom. He believes that children flourish when high academic expectations are combined with excellent pastoral care, outdoor learning, creative opportunities, and memorable experiences. Having led numerous residential visits, enrichment programmes and learning outside the classroom initiatives, he is committed to helping every child develop confidence, resilience, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. 

Chris already has a personal connection with Wellesley Haddon Dene, having experienced the school as a parent. Reflecting on his appointment, he said, “I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of Headmaster at Wellesley Haddon Dene. From my first visits, I was struck by the warmth of the community and the school’s commitment to nurturing every child as an individual. 

“My daughter thoroughly enjoyed her time at Wellesley Haddon Dene, and the education and experiences she received gave her an excellent foundation for secondary school. I am excited to work alongside our pupils, staff, and parents, building on the school’s many strengths and ensuring that every child is inspired and supported to achieve their very best.” 

Wellesley Haddon Dene has built a reputation for excellence in 11+ preparation, with over 90% of pupils securing places in their chosen grammar schools. The school’s broad curriculum and extracurricular programmes, ranging from sports and music to innovative ecological projects, ensure pupils are prepared for every opportunity. Known for its commitment to sustainability, the school has earned a prestigious Eco Award and continues to lead the way in ecological education.

Ali Khan, CEO at Alpha Schools, expressed his confidence in Mr Brown’s ability to lead Wellesley Haddon Dene into a bright future:

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris as Wellesley Haddon Dene’s new Headmaster. His passion for education, combined with his proven ability to lead with both vision and compassion, makes him the ideal person to guide our school into the future. I am confident that under his leadership, Wellesley Haddon Dene will continue to flourish and provide an exceptional learning experience for every pupil.”

Founded in 1929, Wellesley Haddon Dene has been inspiring young minds for nearly a century. Its rich traditions and forward-thinking approach create an education that is as timeless as it is innovative. As Mr Brown prepares to take the helm, the school community is united in anticipation of the bright future ahead.

Final preparations are underway for Mr Brown to officially begin his role at the beginning of the autumn term of 2026. In the interim, he will engage with staff, pupils, and parents to ensure a seamless transition and to become fully immersed in the Wellesley Haddon Dene community. For further information on Wellesley Haddon Dene’s next Open Week and Events as well as specific events that Mr. Brown will be attending, visit  Open Days & Events – Wellesley Haddon Dene

For more information about Wellesley Haddon Dene, please contact the school office at secretary@wellesleyhaddondene.co.uk