About the Summit

Moving beyond the traditional realm of keynote presentations, where renowned thought leaders will share their insights, the conference programme will include workshops and discussions to foster hands-on learning experiences and networking sessions that facilitate meaningful connections. Our commitment to diverse engagement formats aims to cater to varying learning preferences, ensuring that delegates not only absorb information but actively participate in shaping the discourse.

ADAPT. LEAD. THRIVE.. at New Zealand’s premier Assistant and Deputy Principals Leadership Summit, featuring two essential parts:

Part 1: Kōrero & Kai

Thursday 12th June 2025

Novotel Ellerslie: Acacia Garden Bar

Join us for an evening of whanaungatanga and inspiration as we kick off the AP/DP Leadership Summit experience with our Kōrero & Connect event with a nation-wide network of school leaders.

What you can Expect:

• Connect with fellow delegates, mentors, and industry experts over drinks and nibbles.
• Build valuable connections and share ideas in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.
• Set the stage for a productive and transformative hui ahead.

Part 2: AP | DP Leadership Summit

Friday 13 June

9am – 2:45pm

Novotel Ellerslie

Join us for unparalleled insights, expert mentorship, and practical strategies to ADAPT. LEAD. THRIVE.

What you can Expect:

• Key insights into effectively navigating change.
• Current best practice to create & sustain an effective school culture.
• A.I tools to support & transform your leadership and leverage it for enhanced learning outcomes.
• Transformative wellbeing strategies for a healthier you.
• Explore strategies for cultivating a strengths-based culture within your team and organisation.
• The Growth Culture Experience: Great prizes, impactful connections & empowering content!

Facilitators & Presenters

Be inspired by our line-up of distinguished speakers, who are thought leaders in education. They will share insights and strategies for leadership excellence, focusing on current trends, best practice and future directions in education.

Engage directly with our experts in Q&A sessions. This is your opportunity to delve deeper into topics and to seek advice.

Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your leadership and make a lasting impact on the future of education.

Register now for the AP | DP Leadership Summit and secure your place among the brightest minds in the industry!

Register TODAY and unlock exclusive benefits. Together, let’s ADAPT. LEAD. THRIVE.. and forge a brighter future for education!

Barbara Ala'alatoa

Barbara Ala'alatoa embodies the Samoan proverb "O le ala i le pule o le tautua" (The pathway to leadership is through service). A strong advocate for education's transformative power, she has excelled as a principal [Sylvia Park Primary School], chaired the Education Council and Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu, and in 2022 was recognized with the Officer of the NZ Order of Merit. During her time as Chair, the Education Council developed key professional standards and leadership strategies for teachers.

Kyle Brewerton

A prominent figure in New Zealand education, Kyle is the Principal of Remuera Intermediate School and the current president of the Auckland Primary Principals’ Association. His experience extends internationally, having led schools in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Notably, Kyle has conducted research into the development of teaching thinking for understanding within inquiry-based learning. Kyle's passion and heart has always been to be part of the solution ~ equipping and supporting school leaders.

Bex Rose

Bex is a passionate advocate for education with 20 years of experience in the field. Committed to ongoing learning and professional development, Bex has a strong track record of success, including facilitating Digital Technology for 2 years and demonstrating strong business acumen through 2 years in Business Development for an education-based PD provider. Known for galvanising teams and innovative problem-solving skills.

Marshall Diggs

GCLA Director

Marshall has a background as a principal, community leader and keynote speaker, Marshall’s role as Director at the Growth Culture Leadership Academy perfectly combines his incredible ability to inspire educators, with his strengths in leadership, coaching and mentoring.

Marshall excels in effective leadership, bicultural leadership, culture-building, innovation, and strategic solutions. A sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, his strengths lie in effective communication, leadership development, and team building. Marshall and his wife are also deeply committed to global impact. Currently, they are pioneering community transformation projects in Australia, Uganda, Fiji and New Zealand in partnership with several charitable organisations including the Strengths Foundation and World Vision.

Summit Cost

 $475 + GST

Workshop Disclaimer

Our workshops require a minimum number of delegates to proceed in its intended physical format. Should this minimum not be met, the event may be transitioned to an alternative format to ensure all registered participants can access the content, as well as maintain the workshop’s quality and interactive nature. The decision to switch to an alternative format will be communicated promptly to all registrants. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility. For inquiries, please contact info@gcla.co.nz.