SAPHNA announces new chief executive 

The School and Public Health Nurses Association (SAPHNA) has announced Duncan McAuley as its new chief executive.

The role of chief executive was previously held by Sharon White who retired in January 2025 after nearly two decades at the organisation.

Mr McAuley has previously held leadership positions across the education, charity and community sectors, most recently serving as chief executive of Action Foundation where he led strategic development, partnerships and service innovation to support children, young people and families.

Shaping the future

Catherine McEvilly, SAPHNA chair of the board of trustees, said: ‘We are pleased to welcome Duncan as the new CEO of SAPHNA. We are delighted that Duncan’s extensive experience, skills, and vision will help shape the future and continue to advance the charity’s mission and the vital role of school and public health nurses.

‘We look forward to working with Duncan and supporting him in his leadership.’

He will formally take up the post on 11 February 2026.

In a recent newsletter, SAPHNA thanked Lucy Owen who has served as the charity’s interim chief operating officer over the past 12 months.

‘Lucy has provided excellent leadership and professionalism during a period of organisational transition,’ the newsletter noted.

The appointment comes during a difficult time for school nursing and after a tough few years, with a 2024 report from SAPHNA describing the workforce as ‘burnt out and in crisis’.

In September 2024 SAPHNA launched a petition urging the government to ensure every school across the UK has a dedicated school nurse.