Another exciting milestone and chapter in the compelling story of the North Coast’s much anticipated educational institution is the official appointment of Mr Tony Shuttleworth as Founding Headmaster of Seaton House. At a time when many families are seeking values-driven schooling rooted in strong moral foundations, Shuttleworth brings extensive senior leadership experience from Hilton College and a clear vision for establishing a school culture defined by character formation, academic excellence and innovation as well as meaningful community engagement.
Having served for six years as Senior Deputy Headmaster at Hilton College under Headmaster George Harris, Shuttleworth steps into the role with extensive experience in strategic leadership, culture-building and academic oversight. His appointment signals Seaton House’s intent to establish itself as a school of deep substance rooted in Christian conviction with ambitions to become a leading force in South African education.
Seaton House Board Chair and Project Lead, Elwyn van den Aardweg, who was integrally involved in the interview and vetting process for the Headmaster position said the appointment was an ideal fit. “Shuttleworth strongly identified with Seaton House’s foundational values and welcomed the opportunity to shape a school from inception. He supports our vision for Seaton House to be a place of nurture for students and where every learner cultivates compassion, empathy and an outward focus while ensuring academic rigour through the development of strong critical-thinking and communication skills”.
Shuttleworth’s response when asked about his feeling on the announcement was that it was an honour to be appointed as the Founding Head of Seaton House. “I see this role as being both a privilege and a responsibility. I was drawn to Seaton House because of its strong Christian ethos, the vibrant community behind it, and its immense potential to be shaped into a significant asset of
South African education. My intention is that every child should leave Seaton House knowing they are a gift to the world and that they carry within them the capacity to make it a better place,” he explains.
Beyond the learners, Shuttleworth is equally focused on building a healthy and inspired staff culture. He believes schools flourish when teachers feel valued, trusted and empowered to bring their full creativity and authenticity into their calling. Visibility, approachability and authentic relationships will form the cornerstone of his leadership approach.
Also not shying away from the importance of his role to build strong and healthy relationships with the North Coast community that Seaton House will serve, Shuttleworth says, “I want to build authentic connections with families living in the surrounding areas by being an active and visible member of the community. In doing so, I aspire to be an approachable leader who uses regular, clear communication to strengthen the relationship between the school and the wider community. I also hope to establish Seaton House as a true community asset by opening our doors for people to visit, engage with and enjoy our campus”.
A devoted family man, Shuttleworth has been married to his wife, Alana, for 25 years. They have three children twins Ella and Reilly (19) and Joel (14). Outside of school life, he leads an active lifestyle and describes himself as “far more of a beach person than a Berg person,” with many of his most meaningful experiences taking place along South Africa’s coastline. The newly appointed Headmaster plays club water polo, enjoys surfing, plays the guitar and is currently learning to play the harmonica.
As Seaton House enters this new chapter with clarity of vision and confidence in its newly established leadership, this independent, co-educational school’s already strong interest for enrolments is undoubtedly going to increase significantly. According to van den Aardweg, more than 541 families have registered their interest and over 222 formal applications have already been received for the opening grades, which will include Grade 0000 to Grade 6 and Grade 8. The school will add grades year by year until the full Grade 0000 to Grade 12 pathway is established.
Purpose-built as a biophilic campus, the school has been designed as a living classroom where academic rigour, character formation, sport, culture and a deep connection to nature are intentionally woven together. The 25-hectare campus is located on the seaward side of the N2 between Seaton Estate and Lalela Estate, within close reach of established and emerging residential communities including Springvale, Brettenwood, Dunkirk, Elaleni and Zululami. Improved access via the upgraded P228 provincial road and the new N2 interchange, due for completion in 2026, will provide reliable connectivity for families across the region once the school opens in .January 2027.
“With this latest appointment adding to the building momentum we are seeing ahead of Seaton House’s opening next year, the belief that Seaton House is a school with endless possibilities is growing ever stronger and we have no doubt that it is set to be a defining feature of the North Coast’s next chapter in education and community life,” concludes van den Aardweg.
Applications for 2027 are now open and interested families and education stakeholders are encouraged to visit www.seatonhouse.co.za or contact info@seatonhouse.co.za for further information on open events and to register interest. The school will also provide ongoing updates, events, and key milestones through its social media platforms.
