My name is Ollie Clayson and I have been Assistant Head Pastoral and Head of Boarding since 2020. I am in the very fortunate position to be able to guide children and families in the early stages of a child's development and education.

It is a privilege to work with families and staff to get the best out of each and every child. I lead a wonderful team of staff, and the matrons in particular play a pivotal role in all that we do in boarding, and across the school generally when it comes to effective pastoral provision.

It has been a pleasure to take Waihi and the boarding house through and into coeducation and the transition has been seamless. We have a very happy, positive, safe and forward thinking culture where children are encouraged to be the best possible versions of themselves. 

Alongside my role at Waihi, I am also on the National Executive Team for New Zealand Boarding Schools’ Association, and also act as a presenter for Australian Boarding Schools Association.

I am joined by my wife, Lisa, an Occupational Therapist by degree, and having worked 20 years in hospitals, has now become the full time week day matron in Pyne House. We have 2 sons. One son is Year 11 at Christ's College, and the other a Year 6 pupil at Waihi. We live onsite and love throwing ourselves into all that goes on at Waihi. The children are afforded an amazing opportunity and it is a pleasure to live and work at the wonderful Waihi.