The current Pembroke School deputy principal, who has been at the north Oamaru school for about 12 years, will start in his new role at the beginning of term four.
He said he was ''stoked'' to have secured the top job at Duntroon School, about 43km inland from Oamaru.
''The time was right for a move for me. I've been a DP for 12 years, so it was about time to change careers and look for a new challenge.
''That school, it was a no-brainer. It's got great staff, great kids, a great supportive community. So, I just had to have a crack. It's all worked out perfectly.''
Mr Turner said he would miss the staff and pupils at Pembroke, but would miss another aspect of school life for an entirely personal reason.
''One of the highlights for me is working here and my own kids going here. I've gone through with them, so I'm lucky in that respect. I think that's a real privilege.''
He described his teaching style as ''pretty relaxed'' and said it was ''important to be approachable'' as a principal.
When term four started, he wanted to familiarise himself with everyone in the school community as soon as possible.
''For me it's about forming relationships with those kids, their families and with the staff. That's key. They need to get to know me and I need to get to know them.''
