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Welcome and Introductions

We would love to get to know you. Please post a short introduction and take the time to read other people’s introductions too. Networking and connection is a really important aspect of all our leadership programmes and one way to start this off is to comment on other people’s posts.

 

Kei ōu ringaringa te ao

The world is yours.

69 Responses

  1. Kia ora koutou katoa, I’m late to the online forum component, but have been enjoying all other aspects of the course so far, including my coaching session with Grant and jumping into the Quiet Leadership book. The most resonant items for me so far is the reframing of problem focus to that of a solution. It can be a real default to want to be the ‘problem solver’ in leadership and then we can just as easily slip into an approach of ‘lead-by-telling’ people what to do. A little bit about myself: I am Deputy Principal at Nukumea Primary, a new school in Orewa. I have been very privileged to be part of the Foundation team here since 2022. Building up a school from the ground up – from policy, to procedures to staffing and other systems, has been a very rewarding and professionally challenging experience. Currently, we face additional challenges with a slower than expected roll growth. This has also created some unexpected opportunities, as well. I am learning that leadership often shows up when you get in front of something that many would prefer to steer clear of, and look for the silver linings and important lessons. I intend on embracing the whole experience – the good, the bad, and uncertain. I have already had some valuable and insightful dialogue with course coaches and participants, and feel that momentum will only build in the coming weeks and months. I look forward to getting to know you better and especially for the face to face time at the summit in June.

  2. Tena koutou i roto i nga tini ahuatanga o te wa,

    Ko Jade Te Piha Tipene ahau
    Ko Motatau te maunga
    Ko Taikirau te awa
    Ko Ngatokimatawhaorua te waka
    Ko Nukutawhiti te tupuna
    Ko Ngati Te Tarawa te hapu ririki
    Ko Ngati Hine te hapu
    Ko Ngapuhi te iwi
    Ko Kawiti te arikinui

    Kia ora koutou, I’m excited to be working alongside loads of experience and diversity – I’m the DP at Te Kapehu Whetu (Tuakana) in Whangarei. We’re a billingual kura that has a huge focus on Kaupapa Waka (waka navigation/paddling), Kapa Haka and Taiao (Enviro studies). The foundation of our kura is the Leadership Academy of A Company (military style programme for boys).

  3. Ka nui te mihi ki a koutou. Ko Fraser Henare-Findlay tōku ingoa. I’m the Assistant Principal at Taumarunui High School, where I oversee Pastoral Care, Student Leadership, and Arts & Culture. Our kura has a strong focus on supporting students, integrating PB4L and Big Picture Learning into our approach.

    Ngā mihi,

  4. Good Morning team, my name is Christina, Deputy Principal at Northcross Intermediate School for just over 5 years now. Working with Intermediate aged students is a passion of mine – the unique age and stage of the developing adolescent is such a fun/challenging age to support. My other educational passions are working with our priority learners at both ends of ability (Support and extension) and Maths. I am currently enjoying being immersed in Te Mātaiaho refreshed Maths curriculum. Looking forward to developing my leadership skills with you.

    1

  5. Kia ora everyone,

    I’m Steph, Deputy Principal at Te Uho o te Nikau Primary in Flat Bush, Auckland. I’ve been in leadership roles across both education and community work for over 20 years and previously worked with Growth Culture through the Aspiring Principals’ Programme. I love learning and am really excited to extend my knowledge alongside you all. Looking forward to the journey!

    Ngā mihi,
    Steph

    1

  6. Tēnā koutou katoa, Greetings to you all.

    It is exciting to be on this learning journey with you all. I am currently in my first year as a teaching Deputy Principal at Kawaha Point School which is an amazing kura in Rotorua. I have been teaching for many, many years and have held a variety of leadership roles over the past 10 (or so) years. Our learners achieving their very best every day is at the core of our kura. Te Reo Māori me ōna Tikanga (whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and aroha) is my passion not just in our Māori Medium akomanga but also crucially across and within our whole school.

    I’m ready to explore and connect to upskill myself to be a better leader for our kura and our tamariki.

    Nei ra te mihi
    Kiri

    1

  7. Mōrena e te whānau

    Aroha mai for my lateness I have just moved courses and have been added to this rōpū – I have in teaching for 20 + years around the Waikato. My passion is all things HPE, wellbeing with a coaching and mentoring lens. I have completed my Masters of Educational Leadership. I have been in various leadership roles to date; currently I am Health and PE and Wellbeing Across School Kaiako within the Te Pae Here Kaahui Ako and also am currently (2 years) acting as a Regional Leader of Learning at Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu – The Correspondence School in Hamilton. My role entails all things curriculum and learning delivery for my region and whatever is gifted or a priority. I am really looking forward to deliberately making time for my own professional stretch and connections with you all.
    Ngaa mihi nui
    Lou

    1

  8. Tēnā koutou katoa, e ngā rangatira mā!

    Ko Taratara rāua ko Whakaangi ngā maunga
    Ko Whangaroa te moana
    Ko Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa rāua ko Ngāpuhi ōku iwi
    Ko Danielle tōku ingoa.

    I am in my second year as a Deputy Principal at Te Uho o te Nikau Primary School. I’ve been in education for 20 years in various leadership roles and continue to learn and grow alongside others. I’m passionate about creating inclusive spaces where all ākonga and kaiako can thrive.

    I’m really looking forward to connecting with you all, learning together, and sharing whakaaro as we grow in our leadership journeys.

    Ngā mihi!

  9. Kia ora,

    I am an AP in the far South at Aurora College in Invercargill. I am looking forward to participating in the kaupapa of this course and how it will enhance my kete to have positive impact in my kura.

    Ngā mihi,
    Kim

  10. Tēnā koutou katoa
    Kei Tauranga Moana ahau e noho ana.
    I tipu ake ahau ki Tāmaki makaurau.
    Ko Tamaroa te waka.
    Ko Maungakiekie te maunga.
    Nō Ingarangi, nō Kōtirana ōku tupuna.
    Ko Norman, ko McClue ōku whānau.
    Ko Rachel McClue tōku ingoa.
    He tumuaku tuarua ahau ki te kura o Pyes Pā.
    Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

    Kia ora everyone,
    It is lovely to read the introductions from leaders across ngā motu. I am one of the Deputy Principals at Pyes Pā School. A small but mighty, semi-rural school on the outskirts of Tauranga. I’m looking forward to connecting virtually and in person throughout this course. Will be great to hear about some of your passions and amazing kura as we learn together.
    Ngā mihi nui
    Rachel

  12. Kia ora koutou,

    Ko Carey Thomas-Senior taku ingoa
    Nō Airanga me whītī oku tīpuna
    I whānau mai ahau ki Rotorua
    I tīpu ake ahau ki Papakura
    Kei Onekiritea ahua e noho ana
    Kei te kura o Northcote ahau e mahi ana
    Nō reira tēnā koutou tēnā koutou tēnā koutou katoa.

    Hello everyone, I am a bit late to introduce myself with a few technical difficulties (Thanks Emma & Grant for sorting it out).
    I am Carey Thomas- Senior.
    Lovely to connect virtually and looking forward to growth, rich conversations and opportunities to develop professional relationships.
    I have been in Education for just over 20 years and have worn a variety of hats in leadership positions. I have had the privilege of working in diverse schools throughout Tāmaki and have also worked in Alternative Education. I have recently finished my Masters of Educational Leadership focused on cross-cultural relationships which I am truly proud of.
    I am not yet an AP/DP and am currently enjoying a Team Leader position. However, with all the experience I hold, I continue to look for opportunities to make meaningful contributions to our sector and hope to do this through a SLT lens one day soon.

    Here is to a good year of growth.

  13. Kia ora koutou katoa, looking forward to being part of the journey. I am currently an Associate Principal at St Anne’s Catholic school in Manurewa. I have been in this role since 2017. Previously I was Assistant Principal at Holy Cross in Papatoetoe. Ngā mihi Matt

    1

  14. Kia ora koutou. Lovely to read everyone’s introductions. My name is Campbell Wood and I am a Deputy Principal at Hamilton Girls’ High School. Looking forward to meeting and getting to know everyone in due course and the learning to come through this programme.

    1

  15. Kia ora everyone, it has been great to read through your intro’s and it’s been a pleasure of meeting some of you in when I’ve popped into your kura!

    My own journey includes 20 years in education and as a Deputy Principal, followed by a pivot to facilitation and into Growth Culture after initially meeting the team while completing the Aspiring Leadership course. I can’t emphasise enough how impactful that PD was – truly the best I’ve experienced. The kaiarahi mentorship was an absolute gift, providing invaluable support and wisdom, and the connections I forged were incredible. In fact, every member of my group has since become a principal!

    Now, as Head of Impact at Growth Culture, I’ll be actively involved throughout the year. You’ll see me speaking at workshops focused on leadership development, and I’m particularly passionate about exploring the integration of AI into leadership practices. I’m also looking forward to learning from you all too!

    1

  17. Kia ora tātou,

    I’ve been Director of Sport at Mount Maunganui College for five years and have recently moved into a DP role, covering both roles until we find a replacement DoS. Looking forward to the course and learning from facilitators and peers.

    4

  18. Kia ora koutou,

    Ko Whitney Gordon-Roper ahau. I am the Tumuaki Tuarua at Te Kura o Mellons Bay./Mellons Bay School. Currently completing a Post Grad in Māori Education as it is a particular area of passion. Looking forward to connecting with you all.

    3

  20. Kia Ora Everyone,

    My name is Juliet McGarry, and I am currently leading at Remuera Intermediate and working on my last master’s paper in educational leadership. I am looking forward to working with Pauline and you all!

    Ngā mihi nui!

    2

  22. Kia ora koutou katoa. I am in my first year as DP at Orewa Primary. I completed my Master’s 4 years ago and have been an AP since then in what I call my ‘apprenticeship.’ I’ve been so fortunate to have supportive Principals who have encouraged and believed in me. I’m excited about this journey and the opportunity this PD will give me to grow.

    3

  23. Kia ora Pauline,
    I look forward to working with you and the AP/DPs in the forum. I’m in my fourth year as DP at Endeavour School, in Hamilton. I have been at Endeavour since our opening in 2015. Directly before this, while completing my Masters, I taught Education and Psychology papers at the University of Waikato.
    Like I read in some of the other messages I’m looking forward to gaining some clarity for my next steps in Education.
    Thanks
    Kylee

    3

  25. Kia ora koutou, I’m a bit late to the party.. My name is Tatiana Kereru, I am the DP and Year 6 to 8 Teacher at Nuhaka School in Hawkes Bay. Our school is full primary Yr 0 – 8, and we are still situated in the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints in Nuhaka. I have been in my DP role for nearly two years and still finding my way. I also enjoy being in the classroom, so a bit of juggling here and there. I look forward to this leadership course, meeting and working alongside all of you.

    2

  26. Kia ora koutou, I’m in my sixth year as DP and third year as Senco at Te Atatū Intermediate in West Auckland, where we have 470 Year 7 and 8 students. It’s an ever-changing role, and I’m looking forward to taking a step back, reflecting on my direction, and learning from others to help shape my next steps.
    Ngā mihi
    Kelly

    3

  28. Kia ora koutou,

    I’m John, and I’ve been Deputy Principal at Three Kings School for the past four and a half years, following my time as DP at Stanley Bay School. With over 20 years of teaching experience in both New Zealand and the UK, I’ve had the privilege of working in a range of educational settings.
    Leadership wasn’t something I actively sought out—it’s been more of an organic journey, with opportunities arising that I’ve stepped into rather than deliberately chasing. That said, I’ve always been deeply invested in education, in supporting both students and teachers to succeed, and in contributing to school communities in a meaningful way.
    Right now, I find myself at a crossroads, reflecting on what comes next in my career. I’m looking for greater clarity about my future direction, and I’m excited about the chance to explore that through this journey with you all. I’m looking forward to learning, challenging my thinking, and engaging in some rich discussions along the way.

    4

  29. Mōrena everyone,
    Sorry I am a bit late introducing myself on here! My name is Sarah Topping and I have been teaching for 14 years in the Hawkes Bay and Waikato area. I am looking forward to getting to know you all and continue to work on my own learning and leadership journey this year. I am currently AP at Te Waotu primary which is a rural school in the Waikato. We are a full primary and I am currently teaching in the Year 7 and 8 class as well.

    3

  30. Kia ora koutou,
    I am AP at Balclutha Primary School located in South Otago. This is my second year as AP. We are a full primary school – year 0-8. I am excited about enhancing my leaderships skills, building knowledge and connecting with others.

    2

  31. Kia ora koutou katoa,
    I am reasonably new to the DP role having been in it for less than a year so still finding my way.
    I am excited to join you all in this learning journey and am looking forward to sharing experiences and making connections.
    I work at Albany Primary School which has around 650 ākonga and I currently oversee our Phase 1 classes, years 0,1,2 and 3.
    Kindest regards and ngā mihi,
    Anneliese

    2

  32. Kia ora koutou, Great to be here. I am AP at Southcity Christian School, and have been for two years. I’m eager to develop my understanding and skills with you all, with an aim to working better with our wonderful staff. We have 209 students at the moment, and are in full growth mode!

    3

  33. Kia ora koutou
    I am Deputy Principal at Ashburton Christian School and have been in this position for a number of years. I am looking forward to making connections, extending my knowledge and gleaning as much information as I can. Our kura is an area school of 280 students – we have had rapid roll growth and it has been an exciting place to be a part of.

    3

  35. Kia ora koutou!!! I am super excited about this programme! I have been a classroom teacher for 11 years and am now in my 2nd year as Deputy Principal at Bell Block School here in New Plymouth. I am eager to learn and always wanting to know more and connect with other like minded people!

    2

  36. Kia ora koutou! A little late to the party but here now! I have been a DP since 2018 and have just recently moved to a new school for 2025, Te Mata Primary in Havelock North. Really looking forward to the programme and meeting people involved in it.

    2

  38. Kia ora koutou

    My name is Ashok Kumar and I am from Aorere College. My school is located in Papatoetoe, Auckland. I am currently the Head of the Mathematics department and a strategic leader. I oversee the school’s Kāinga curriculum and am responsible for the school values. I am excited to be here and connecting with fellow like-minded people.

    I am looking forward to connecting with you all.

    Ngā mihi,
    Ashok

    2

  40. Kia ora koutou. My name is Nicolene, Deputy Principal at Karamea Area School on the West Coast, South Island. I have worked here since 2023 with a staff of 13 and school roll of 90 learners ranging from Years 0-13. Being in such an environment also means you are wearing many ‘hats’ and I hope this forum will be space to connect with others in similar situations and grow as a leader.

    3

  41. Kia Ora Koutou,
    In my first year as sole AP at Redhill School here in Papakura, I’m looking forward to building myself in my new role. I have been easing into the role for the last two years, but this is the first year I am squarely in my position. I hope to improve my abilities as a leader and am very keen to learn alongside all of you.
    I came into teaching later in life and am now in my 6th year teaching in the Junior School. The thing I love most about teaching is the chance to learn something new every day.
    Nga mihi,

    2

  42. Kia ora koutou katoa, and a warm welcome to all delegates involved in the AP/DP programme. I look forward to meeting you all and specifically supporting my three delegates from Hukanui School. I applaud your willingness to take up this professional development opportunity and I’m confident you will find the programme very worthwhile. I’m a relative newbee to the Kaiārahi role being in my second year with Growth Culture, following my retirement from over forty years in education, with the last fourteen spent leading Tauranga Boys’ College.
    I’m looking forward to partnering with you and sharing my knowledge and experience in educational leadership, as you strive to develop your knowledge and further your career.
    Enjoy the journey!
    Ngā mihi nui Robert

    2

  43. Kia ora

    I’m Katharine, the newly appointed Deputy Principal at Hukanui School in Hamilton. I’m excited for the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally through this course, further enhancing my own leadership journey.
    ngaa mihi

    2

  44. Kia ora koutou mā,
    I am Tracey Morgan and I am the DP at Whangārei Heads School, based on the coast in Northland. We have stunning views of the Whangārei Harbour and Mount Manaia beside us guiding us every day. We are a small school with 145 tamariki from Year 0-8. I look forward to connecting with everyone and being able to grow throughout this course. Ngā mihi nui

    3

  45. Kia ora one and all …I have the absolute privilege of walking alongside 21 stunning leaders right across the North Island and in Invercargill. Amazing! What I love already about this leadership programme is that it immediately fosters/grows ownership. We will grow if we choose to. “Seeking advice doesn’t reveal incompetence. It reflects respect for another person’s insight. Requesting feedback doesn’t signal insecurity. It demonstrates that you care more about your learning than your ego. Asking for help doesn’t display weakness. It builds strength.” (Adam Grant). I really look forward to building relationship with you all as we explore the limitless arena of leadership especially within our school contexts and for the sake of our precious tamariki. For my leaders, an introductory email is on the way with a schedule for my visit. Nga mihi Murray Burton

    2

  47. Kia ora koutou,

    I’m Andrew, the Associate Principal at Fraser High School in Hamilton. I’m excited for the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally through this course, while connecting with like-minded individuals. Looking forward to learning, sharing, and making the most of 2025 together!

    Ngaa Mihi

    3

  48. Kia ora katoa,
    My name is Paul Chalk and I am the Deputy Principal at Evans Bay Intermediate School in Kilbirnie, Wellington. I have been here 8 years now, following a couple of years teaching in the UK. I have been in the role of DP for 3 years. Really looking forward to working with everyone and learning from all of you to develop further as a leader. Outside of Education I play Football, build Lego and read when I can.

    2

  49. Kia ora koutou. I’m Susan, Deputy Principal at Hukanui School in Kirikiriroa. We are a vibrant school of 850 young learners from Years 0-6 and I’ve had the privilege of working here for 8 years. I’m excited to join this leadership forum and am looking forward to connecting with you all and growing as a leader.

    3

    1. Kia ora Susan,
      I’m looking forward to working with you and the large team from Hukanui School. I’m sure you will all benefit from sharing the knowledge as the course progresses!
      I look forward to visiting early in March.
      Ngā mihi nui Robert

  51. Kia ora everyone,

    I’m Jess, currently in my first DP role. I am based in Auckland but have spent time teaching in Palmerston North, Christchurch and London. I am looking forward to taking part in this course and learning from everyone.

    2

  53. Kia ora e te whānau. What an absolute privilege it is to have the opportunity to walk alongside you this year as your kaiārahi. Seeing so many people motivated and excited to grow as people and leaders gives me great hope for the future of education here in Aotearoa. As a current principal, I look forward to being part of your journey as you look to leading your own school and community one day soon. Having been a Principal for over 20 years here in New Zealand and internationally I hope to be able to share some wisdom whilst also learning a thing or two from you and your experiences. As they say, knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit, wisdom is knowing you don’t put tomatoes in a fruit salad.

    2

  54. Hi team, as the Kaiarahi of 21 AP and DP’s from the northern part of the country (ie Northland, Auckland, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty) I am really excited by the opportunity of getting to know and working alongside this group of Senior Leaders over 2025. We have a great year ahead of us. It will especially be great to get the whole just 60 plus of us together for the Auckland leadership Summit on June 12th and 13th. I hope that really you enjoy the experience. Regards Grant Lander

    2

  60. Kia ora Pauline,

    Thank you for your introduction. I am also looking forward to getting to know you and can’t wait to work alongside you and the other people on this year’s leadership journey.

    Kind regards

    Pierre

    2

  65. Kia ora koutou katoa, and I to add my welcome to the AP/DP forum space. I am delighted to be working with you as your kaiārahi for 2025 and congratulate you on signing up for this mahi in addition to all the other work and responsibilities the year holds for you. I am excited to get to know you all, to hear your passions and ambitions, to explore and understand your work environment and to learn what drives and motivates you.
    My contribution to our learning partnership comes from over forty years in education, the most recent seventeen as Principal of Tauranga Girls’ College. I am also in my sixth year as part of the Growth Culture team, working across the motu in primary, intermediate and secondary schools supporting aspiring leaders. ” Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua” – Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead. Looking forward to embarking with you on this year’s leadership journey.

    2

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