Roedean School (SA) has appointed Odelle Howard as its new Executive Head, with the experienced education leader set to take up the role on 1 May 2027. Her appointment comes as the Johannesburg girls’ school looks ahead to its next phase of development, with a continued focus on teaching, pupil wellbeing and academic excellence.

Howard brings almost three decades of experience in education and senior leadership at South African independent schools, including boarding schools. Her background spans school strategy, governance, organisational culture and operations.

For pupils, families and staff, the appointment signals the importance of leadership that supports teachers, strengthens school communities and maintains high educational standards.

Roedean School South Africa Names Experienced Education Leader

Howard began her career as a Physical Science teacher, an experience that continues to shape her approach to educational leadership.

Throughout her career, she has led schools through periods of significant change. Her work has focused on strengthening school culture, rebuilding trust, developing leadership teams and turning strategic plans into practical action.

Additionally, her experience covers financial management, human resources, safeguarding, admissions, advancement, infrastructure, boarding and school operations. She has also served on boards and advisory structures across the education, corporate and community sectors.

Howard holds an Honours Degree in Leadership and Management and a Higher Diploma in Education. She has also completed senior leadership development through Wits Business School and Oxford University.

Why Teacher Development And School Culture Matter

Nicky Fitzgerald, Chair of the Roedean School (SA) Board, said the school had undertaken an extensive search for a leader who understood its current strengths and future priorities.

“Roedean undertook an extensive search for a leader who understood both the strength of our school today and what will be required of us over the next five years. Odelle brings deep educational experience, strong organisational leadership and, importantly, an instinct for bringing people with her. Our teachers are at the heart of Roedean, and supporting, developing and retaining an exceptional teaching body will remain central to the School’s future. We believe Odelle is very well placed to lead Roedean into its next chapter while respecting the heritage and values that have shaped the School for more than a century.”

The emphasis on teacher development reflects a central consideration for school communities. Teachers influence pupils’ classroom experiences, academic progress and wider development. Supporting them through professional development and effective leadership can help schools maintain consistent standards.

Furthermore, a strong school culture depends on trust, clear communication and shared expectations among teachers, pupils, families and leadership teams.

Odelle Howard To Lead Roedean School From May 2027

Howard said she was looking forward to joining the Roedean community and contributing to the next phase of the school’s development.

Her appointment follows an extensive recruitment and selection process conducted by the Roedean School (SA) Board.

As Executive Head, she will bring experience across academic leadership and the operational responsibilities involved in running an independent school. Her background in boarding education is also relevant to a school serving both day pupils and boarders.

Founded in 1903, Roedean School (SA) is an independent day and boarding school for girls in Johannesburg. The school aims to develop confident and compassionate young women through academic excellence and a commitment to meaningful contributions to society.

Howard is due to begin her new role on 1 May 2027. Her leadership will help shape the school’s priorities as it continues to build on more than a century of educational history.