Wellington College International Lagos has appointed Christine Haslett as its founding headmaster, effective August 1, 2026. The school is set to open in September 2027 in Alaro City, Lagos. Haslett brings extensive experience from leadership roles in international schools in the UK, China and Indonesia. She played a key role in establishing Wellington College Independent School Jakarta, helping shape its academic and pastoral framework.
Her leadership approach emphasises strategic clarity, academic excellence, and strong community and character development. Paul Vanni, International Director of Wellington College International, said Haslett has the experience and judgment to guide the school through its formative years. He added that her values-driven approach aligns with the institution's mission to shape education that serves society.
Christine Haslett described the appointment as a privilege. "It is a privilege to take up the role of Founding Headmaster at Wellington College International Lagos," she said. "I look forward to working with students, families and colleagues to establish a school that is ambitious, values-led, and deeply rooted in the Wellington ethos." She aims to create a learning environment where every child is known, challenged and inspired to reach their potential.
The school will serve children aged 3 to 18, offering both day and boarding options. It will draw families from Nigeria, West Africa and the wider African diaspora. Rooted in the global Wellington College network, the Lagos campus will follow a shared philosophy of academic excellence and holistic development. The curriculum will honour Nigeria's heritage while preparing students for global engagement.
Christine Haslett is set to lead a school rooted in British educational values, yet her vision includes honouring Nigeria's heritage—a balance yet to be defined in practice. The school will open in 2027, but no Nigerian educators or local curriculum experts have been named in its foundational leadership. Her experience lies in institutions outside Africa, raising questions about how the Lagos campus will adapt its ethos beyond symbolic nods. Without local academic voices at the table, the claim of being rooted in Nigerian heritage risks remaining aspirational.
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