Julie Haugh will take on the role of acting principal at Regent House School in Newtownards in September. She has served as vice principal at the school for over 10 years. She succeeds Michael Carville, who is leaving for a career break in Abu Dhabi.

Haugh began her teaching career 23 years ago. She held senior leadership positions at four schools, including two in England. After working as assistant principal at Victoria College Belfast, she joined Regent House as vice principal.

The school includes a grammar school, preparatory department, and preschool. Haugh teaches A-level Geography and GCSE agriculture. She plans to maintain principles of respect, high expectations, and support.

Her goals include creating an inclusive community where pupils reach full potential through classroom and extracurricular activities. These activities cover sports, music, trips, and clubs to build confidence and teamwork.

Haugh has led school trips to the Bornean rainforest, Inca Trail in Peru, and Mount Meru in Tanzania. She credits the school's mental health teams and student leadership teams for supporting pupil wellbeing.

She expressed thanks to staff, pupils, parents, senior leaders, and governors for their support over the past decade.