A Melbourne-born educator who has led schools in Beijing and Florence will be the next principal of NEGS Armidale.
Sharyn Baddeley has been appointed to lead the independent girls’ boarding and day school from 2027, replacing the retiring Liz van Genderen. She is currently Head of School at the International School of Florence, in Italy.
Mrs Baddeley began her career in private schools in Melbourne. She spent almost eight years at Lauriston Girls’ School, where she was Head of Sport and Mitchell Head of House, before leaving in 2017.
She then moved to Beijing, first in a middle school leadership role and later as head of The International Bilingual School. The day and boarding school has about 1,800 students from early years to Grade 12, and about 460 staff.
Mrs Baddeley became Head of School in Florence in July 2022. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Business Management, a Bachelor of Applied Science, and a master’s degree in educational leadership.
She has described her style as visible and supportive.
“Forming relationships is my focus,” Mrs Baddeley told The Florentine.
“I like to be supportive and to be involved in what is happening in the classrooms.”
The appointment follows an executive search conducted by the NEGS Board. The new principal steps into the role with a clear mandate to preserve the school’s heritage and traditions while advancing an ambitious educational strategy for the future.
“We look towards 2027 with continuity and confident progression,” said NEGS Ltd Chairman of the Board Peter Moffitt.
“Our 131-year history in Armidale has given us a strong, proud foundation built on community, integrity, and resilience.”
“We were conscious of the need to appoint a leader who brings the experience and capability to lead NEGS into its next chapter, while understanding and respecting the values, traditions and distinctive character that have shaped our School for generations.”
“We are committed to preserving what makes NEGS special while building upon the School’s strengths and preparing it confidently for generations to come,” Mr Moffitt said.
“We are thrilled to welcome our new Principal to the NEGS family and look forward to working together as we guide our school into a bright, dynamic future.”
Social media excerpt: She grew up in Melbourne and has led schools in Beijing and Florence. Now Sharyn Baddeley is heading to Armidale as the new principal of NEGS, with a focus on building relationships.
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