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Otago Boys' High School Welcomes New Director of Boarding.

By Richard Hall | Posted: Sunday March 15, 2026

Otago Boys’ High School is proud to announce the appointment of old boy Lance Taylor as the new Director of Boarding for School House. Lance will start on Sunday 19 April 2026.

In a historic milestone for the hostel, Lance, a former Head Prefect of School House (2010), becomes the first ex-boarder to be appointed to the Director role. His return marks a full-circle moment for both the school and the Taylor family; Lance is the son of an OBHS Old Boy, Brent Taylor (1975) and originally hails from Lawrence.

Lance also joins the Senior Ledership team of the school as an Assistant Principal. His knowledge of the the Year 6-8 curriculum will be especially invaluable as Otago Boys' charts the Yr 8 - 10 curriculum changes.

A Proven Leader Returns Home

Since leaving OBHS in 2010, Lance has built an impressive career in education. Holding a Bachelor of Education and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary), he brings 11 years of classroom experience to the hostel. He joins us from Ashley Rakahuri School in Canterbury, where he served as a senior leader and was highly regarded for his energy, passion, and "people-first" philosophy.

Expertise and Empathy

Lance’s appointment is built on a deep, personal understanding of the boarding experience. He possesses a unique blend of empathy for young men and the mana required to lead them. His vision for School House focuses on:

  • Character Development: Instilling the essential traits young men need to thrive in the modern world.

  • A "Team First" Culture: Strengthening the bond between staff and students.

  • Attention to Detail: A commitment to "sweating the small stuff" to ensure excellence in every aspect of hostel life.

A Family-Centered Approach

Moving into School House is a family affair. Lance is joined by his wife, Krysta and children Ruby and Fletcher. Together, they are committed to enhancing the "home away from home" atmosphere that makes School House the premier boarding destination in Dunedin.

"Lance has all of the personal attributes and professional skills required to be a modern-day leader," says Rector Richard Hall, who has been leading the hostel this term. "It is always special to appoint an Old Boy to the school, and extra special to appoint one as the leader of School House. We encourage our entire community to get behind Lance and his family as they begin this next chapter."