Due: 16th June
“He waka eke noa”
We are all in this together.
Module Objectives:
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Articulate their personal leadership philosophy and goals.
- Develop a compelling vision for student success that is inclusive and equitable.
- Align their personal goals and vision with the school’s mission and strategic plan.
- Identify and utilise relevant resources to support their leadership development.
Task 1: Defining Your Leadership Philosophy
Reflect on your values. What are the core values that guide your personal and professional life? How do these values influence your approach to leadership?
Consider your beliefs about learning. What are your beliefs about how students learn best? What are your beliefs about the role of the teacher in the learning process?
Define your leadership aspirations. What impact do you want to have as a leader? What are your long-term goals for your leadership journey?
Explore different leadership styles (e.g., transformational, servant, instructional). See below for resources to explore. Which styles resonate most with you? Why?
Briefly journal your reflections and insights from this activity.
Task 2: Defining Student Success
Explore diverse perspectives on student success. Consider the following questions:
- What does it mean for students to be successful academically? Socially? Emotionally? Culturally?
- How can we ensure all students, regardless of their background or learning needs, experience success?
Develop an inclusive definition of student success that applies to all learners in your school.
Discuss your definition of student success with colleagues and seek their feedback.
Task 3: Aligning with the School’s Mission
Carefully review the school’s mission statement, values, and strategic goals.
Analyse how your personal leadership goals and vision for student success align with the school’s overall direction.
Identify any areas where your personal leadership goals and vision may need to be adjusted to better support the school’s priorities.
Share your reflections on the forum in 150 words or less.
Resource Bank:
Explore the resources most relevant to you and your personal reflections:
- Leadership Styles – https://hbr.org/2024/04/6-common-leadership-styles-and-how-to-decide-which-to-use-when
- Transformational Leadership –https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/08/13/transformational-leadership-the-how-and-why/
- Servant Leadership – https://positivepsychology.com/servant-leadership/
- Instructional Leadership – https://schoolreviews.education.qld.gov.au/res/Documents/spotlight-paper-instructional-leadership.pdf
- Seven Strong Claims About Successful School Leadership Revisited – https://www.profdavidhopkins.com/assets/docs/Seven%20strong%20claims%20about%20successful%20school%20leadership%20revisited.pdf
Assessment:
- Self-reflection throughout the module.
- Completion of all activities – journaling for Task 1, conversation with colleague for Task 2 and post on forum for Task 3.
- Peer feedback and discussion within the online forum.
27 Responses
Takitumu e
E Pa Ki Te Rangi
Task 3: Aligning with the School’s Mission
School Vision:
E Pa ki te rangi! Aim High!
School Mission:
Takitumu Primary School provides a high quality education system that educates and prepares a child mentally, physically, socially, culturally and spiritually for life.
Too good aye. I am happy to be in a school that prepares a child mentally, physically, socially, culturally and spiritually for life, because I want the best out of them. I see a strong connection between my personal leadership goals and the direction of Takitumu School. I am committed to supporting students’ growth not just academically, but also socially, culturally, and spiritually, exactly as outlined in our mission. My passion for cultural leadership, especially through language, performance, and identity, complements our holistic approach to education.
The Takitumu Way aligns with my belief in nurturing respectful relationships, strong social values, and a safe, inclusive environment. One area I aim to strengthen is contributing more directly to academic priorities, particularly literacy and numeracy, while still embedding culture across the curriculum.
By aiming high and walking together in Te Kaveinga o Takitumu, I hope to help create learners who are confident in who they are and prepared for life beyond the classroom.
3 John 1:4, which says, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
This verse highlights the deep satisfaction and happiness that comes from all leaders, teachers and parents.
Kia orana e te uipaanga
Task 2: Defining Student Success
Every learner has the opportunity to grow in ways that are meaningful to them, academically, socially, emotionally, and culturally—while feeling seen, valued, and empowered to succeed.
My Perspective
Student success goes beyond just academic achievement. To me, true success includes academic growth, social skills, emotional well-being, and cultural identity. If we see that in our student AE kua pass rai koe e puapii e, ei arataki katoa.
• Academically, success means students are progressing at their own pace, developing confidence, and engaging meaningfully with their learning.
• Socially and emotionally, it’s about students forming positive relationships and feeling safe and supported in their school environment.
• Culturally, especially at Apii Takitumu success means students are proud of their identity. Parents and families feel a deep sense of pride when they see their children actively participating in cultural events, such as our School Cultural Festival held last term. It’s a powerful reminder that education is not just about academics, but also about celebrating identity and heritage. Our children that were involved in the tangikaara last week, where students learned traditional Cook Islands drum beats and the pē‘e (chants). These experiences connect our learners to their roots and allow them to express themselves with confidence and pride.
To ensure all students experience success, we need to embrace inclusive practices that support diverse learning needs and backgrounds. This includes differentiated teaching, strong cultural connections in the curriculum, and building respectful relationships with students and their families.
I know that many of us on this journey share a common passion, our love for culture, and the desire to see it thrive through education. It’s encouraging to see how our shared values come through in the way we lead, teach, and support our learners.
I’m truly inspired by the collective efforts of everyone here and grateful to be part of a group that values culture so deeply in our leadership and teaching practice.
Kia orana tatou katoatoa i te aroa maata o te Atua.
I sincerely appreciate everyone’s thoughtful reflections. They provided valuable insight and helped me clarify and express my thinking more clearly, both for myself and for others.
Task 1: Defining Your Leadership Philosophy
1. Core Values That Guide My Life and Leadership
My leadership is grounded in the values of respect, service, integrity, collaboration, and cultural identity. These values come from both my upbringing on the island of Atiu and my personal commitment to honouring our Cook Islands heritage. I lead with compassion, fairness, and a sense of collective responsibility. These values influence my leadership by encouraging me to uplift others, model high standards, and raise strong relationships within the school community.
2. Beliefs About Learning and Teaching
I believe that students learn best in an environment where they feel safe, valued, and connected to their culture. Learning should be active, meaningful, and culturally responsive. I see the role of the teacher as a guide, facilitator, and someone who encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. I am helping learners build confidence in both their academic abilities and their identity.
3. My Leadership Aspirations
As a leader, I want to make a lasting impact by strengthening cultural education and ensuring inclusive, high-quality learning experiences for all students. My long-term goal is to continue growing as an educational leader who inspires others, supports teacher development, and champions student success, especially through the lens of Cook Islands values and language. I aspire to be a principal who leads with both heart and vision, grounded in service to the community.
4. Leadership Style That Resonates With Me
I believe the leadership styles that resonate most with me are servant leadership and transformational leadership. As a servant leader, I prioritize the needs of my students, staff, and community. I believe leadership is about serving others, listening deeply, and supporting growth. As a transformational leader, I strive to inspire change, build shared goals, and create a strong school culture rooted in our values. These styles align with the way I lead at Takitumu always with purpose, care, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Meitaki ranuinui everyone for taking the time to read through my Teaching Philosophy. I truly appreciate the effort and attention you gave to understanding my thoughts and values. Your time and support mean a lot, and I’m grateful to be part of a professional learning community where we can learn from and encourage one another.
“True leadership lies in guiding others to success. In ensuring that everyone is performing at their best, doing the work they are pledged to do and doing it well” – Bill Owens
Task 1:
Many would argue that leaders are made, while others would say that leaders are born. I believe that leaders are equally born and made. My culturally diverse upbringing and Christian beliefs have shaped the foundational standards I uphold and it has redefined my character. The core values that guide my approach to life – both personally and professionally – are INTEGRITY, HUMILITY, EMPATHY, and FAITH. These values influence my character and how I connect with others.
Reflecting on my experience, I believe that students learn best when the learning environment meets the core values of the teacher, whilst aligning with the standards of the school. An educational space that mirrors respect, inclusiveness, and emphasizes the development of strong relationships, will impact both student and the educator. As a teacher, my role is to influence by inspiring, empowering, motivating, and supporting the children and colleagues around me, enriching the mental, emotional, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects.
In the leadership roles that I am involved in, my ambitions are highly centered on creating a safe and culturally responsive space, empowering others, and inspiring change through collaboration and service.
Based on the readings and collaborative sharing of the readings in a group discussion, I have found that as a leader, I would be tapping into a combination of leadership styles based on the context or situation. For example, if I was to plan a big Science Fair that involves inventions and experiments for my school – with limited time to prepare – I would use the autocratic leadership style in making an executive decision on the time and date of the event, the safety procedures, and assign my team to conduct specific tasks. Later, I would apply the democratic leadership style in by asking my colleagues and students for some ideas about the Science Fair activities, the set-up, and possible expert guest presentation. Using both leadership styles would help me to keep things organized and on time, while also involving the school community and making them feel included. As highlighted in the readings, I feel that the leadership style that I resonate with most is Service Leadership, as it captures the core values that I uphold, whilst emphasizing the importance of growth and success of others. When tapping into the other leadership styles where needed, all my decisions, planning, and ideas will be made through the lens of the Service Leadership style.
Task 2:
Success for students goes beyond academic achievements – it includes the holistic well-being of each student. Success for my students at Apii Arorangi means that every individual feels a sense of belonging, feels valued, and is confident in being themselves. From the standpoint of my culturally diverse upbringing and Christian beliefs, it has shaped my view that all students are unique and deserve and deserve to thrive, no matter their background. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to provide a fair opportunity by removing barriers and creating an inclusive environment that allows my students to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and culturally. Success is viewed differently by students, and it is a great reminder that students placed in my care learn differently when aiming to achieve. I plan to collaborate with my colleagues in supporting our students in ways that reflect their full potential.
Task 3:
Apii Arorangi Vision Statement: Aere Ki Mua, Takina Ki Runga – Onwards and Upwards
Vision: To motivate students to be proactive lifelong learners.
Mission: To develop strong and healthy relationships students, staff, and the community.
Values: Integrity, Respect, Courage, Excellence
After reviewing my school’s vision, mission, and Values, I found a strong alignment with my personal leadership philosophy. It matches my belief that a leader is both born and made. The values gained through experience and my upbringing influences my drive to lead with humility, faith, and empathy. An area of growth for me will be to strengthen my use of data and strategic planning to support school-wide improvements effectively. This reflection encourages me to continue developing my leadership practices that not only honours the school’s mission and vision, but further encourages me to stay true to the core values I uphold. By aligning my goals with a shared vision with my school, I can better contribute and help create better outcomes for both my students and colleagues.
Kia orana e te au taeake
Tetai manga tuanga ei tauturu ia tatou i roto i teia tuatau e akateateamamao nei ia tatou kia riro mai ei arataki matutu i roto i to tatou basileia.
Task 1: My Leadership Philosophy
As an educator leader, I strive to create a school community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Core Principles
1. Respect: Kindness and respect for all, regardless of background or perceptive.
2. Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and accountability in all interactions.
Leadership Approach
• Student-centered: Prioritizing students’ needs and well-being
• Collaborative: Fostering teamwork among staff, students, and community.
• Inclusive: Celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity
Empowerment
• Empowering individuals to take ownership of their growth, learning, and leadership.
I believe we want our students to become future leaders, equipped with the knowledge, skills and values to succeed, By instilling respect, integrity, and a growth mindset, we can create a brighter future.
“Together, let’s build a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
TASK 2: Student Success
Students success is achieved by meeting or exceeding standards, building a strong foundation in core subjects like Literacy and Numeracy, and cultivating critical thinking, creativity and innovation skills. Students set and achieve academic goals, demonstrating a growth mindset.
Social success involves developing essential skills, building positive relationship with peers, teachers and family, and contributing to a supportive school community. This includes effective communication, collaboration, empathy and respect for diverse perspectives as well as participation in extra curricular activities.
Emotional Success is achieved by developing self-awareness, self-regulations and emotional intelligence. Students learn to recognize and manage emotions, build self-confidence and self-esteem.
Ultimately, student success encompasses academic, social, emotional growth, empowering learners to reach their full potential.
TASK 3: Alignment Analysis
Apii Arorangi
Mission: To develop strong and healthy relationships between students, staff and the community.
Values: Integrity, Respect, Excellence and Courage
My personal leadership and vision for students success align with the school’s mission and values:
1. Integrity: My emphasis on respect and integrity in leadership mirrors the school’s values.
2. Respect: Fostering positive relationships and inclusivity aligns with the school’s mission.
3. Excellence: My focus on academic excellence and student growth supports the school’s pursuit of excellence.
Areas for adjustment
1. Courage: I can further emphasize courageous leadership and encouraging students to take risks.
2. Community engagement: I can strengthen community partnerships to enhance student success.
Conclusion
My leadership goals and vision largely align with the school’s direction. With a focus on courage and community engagement, I can further support the school’s mission and values, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
Thank you for sharing your reflection, Annie. One point that is raised commonly across all responses, which you have highlighted, is the importance of building strong relationships. I also believe that building strong relationships is vital for success within the school. It removes many barriers and allows for growth academically, emotionally, and socially. This has been evident working with you, under your leadership! Thank you for giving me a big picture of leadership and what it looks like.
Kia Orana e te Matakeinanga,
Firstly, what an absolute pleasure this is for me to read all your responses.
Coming from Apii Nikao…
Our Mission:
a. CREATE stimulating and inclusive learning environment
b. EMPOWER learners to contribute confidently and responsibly
c. NURTURE, EDUCATE and GROW
d. INSPIRE through challenge and inquiry
e. ENGAGE powerful relationships
Our Vision:
Productive citizens, rich in culture, ready for the future
My personal leadership goal resonates with that of the Transformational Leadership that expresses the importance of teacher empowerment and staff value. I have been surrounded by a series of instances where Leadership tends to be more Instructional- as expected, coming from a community where culture reflects on instructed practices. We are who we are because that is the way our ancestors trained us to be.
However, in these trying times where behaviour of children tends to take the best out of a good teacher, I believe that the need for us to understand our children will help us achieve greater things in terms of child success and personal gain as well.
My schools Mission definitely caters for the learning needs of ALL students in my school. Our vision also captures the value our Cook Islands Culture.
With the many changes the students are going through, the change in time and technology- It is important that a team of Transforming Educators are best to lead the new generation of learners.
Kia Orana e te Matakeinanga,
Firstly, what an absolute pleasure this is for me to read all your responses.
My personal leadership goal resonates with that of the Transformational Leadership that expresses the importance of empowerment and individualised value. I have been surrounded by a series of instances where Leadership tends to be more Instructional- as expected, coming from a community where culture reflects on instructed practises. We are who we are because that is the way our ancestors trained us to be.
However, in these trying times where behaviour of children tends to take the best out of a good teacher, I believe that the need for us to understand our children will help us achieve greater things in terms of child success and personal gain as well.
My schools Mission definitely caters for the learning needs of ALL students in my school. Our vision also captures the value our Cook Islands Culture.
With the many changes the students are going through, the change in time and technology- It is important that a team of Transforming Educators are best to lead the new generation of learners.
Papa Paiere,
Thank you for sharing your leadership goals that focuses on transformative leadership, which is key to adapting to changes in tech and students needs. A team of transformative educators will lead the next generation effectively.
This is awesome, bro! Your connection to your school’s mission and vision clearly shows your deep commitment to nurturing diverse learners who are culturally grounded and future-ready. I agree that better understanding our students is key to unlocking their potential and leading them. Thank you for sharing your powerful and heartfelt response to this module.
Task 1: Defining Your Leadership Philosophy- Briefly journal your reflections and insights from this activity.
This activity has deepened my understanding of who I am as a leader. It reminded me that leadership is not a title, but a responsibility to serve, inspire, and grow alongside others. By remaining grounded in my values and continuously reflecting on my practice, I can lead with authenticity and create environments where all learners flourish. I am committed to leading with both heart and clarity—championing both academic success and the well-being of every learner.
Task 2- Defining Student Success
At Apii Nikao, student success means that every learner is supported to reach their full potential — academically, socially, emotionally, and culturally. Success is not just about high achievement in tests, but about becoming confident, respectful, and responsible individuals who can contribute positively to their families, communities, and society.
We believe students are successful when they:
Show progress in learning and strive to do their best.
Develop strong cultural identity and pride in who they are.
Demonstrate respect, resilience, and positive relationships with others.
Engage in school life, including sports, culture, and leadership.
Feel safe, valued, and supported in their learning journey.
Student success is achieved through high-quality teaching, strong partnerships with families, and an inclusive environment where all learners regardless of their background or needs can thrive.
Task 3 – Aligning with the School’s Mission-School
Apii Nikao- Vision/Orama
(What do we envision for our children? Eaa ta tatou e umuumu nei no ta tatou anau tamariki?)
Productive citizens, rich in culture, ready for the future
Akamarokuraia ki roto I te pito enua, turanga vaevae no te au tuatau ki mua, kia rangatira e kia tiratiratu
School Mission
a. CREATE stimulating and inclusive learning environment
b. EMPOWER learners to contribute confidently and responsibly
c. NURTURE, EDUCATE and GROW
d. INSPIRE through challenge and inquiry
e. ENGAGE powerful relationships
“To provide quality education through a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment that empowers all learners to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.”
My leadership vision centres on creating inclusive, culturally grounded learning environments where all students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This aligns with Apii Nikao’s mission to provide quality education in a nurturing environment that empowers learners. I prioritise student voice, cultural identity, and holistic wellbeing, core aspects of our school values. To strengthen alignment, I recognise the need to more intentionally support digital learning integration and accelerate progress in literacy and numeracy, as outlined in our strategic goals. By adjusting my leadership focus to uplift these priorities, I can better contribute to collective school improvement and student success.
At Apii Rutaki, our mission is more than just education—it’s about identity, resilience, and community. As principal, my vision aligns with our commitment to nurturing students who are confident in their heritage and capable in their learning.
Our focus on lifelong wisdom, self-management, and critical thinking resonates deeply with my belief that education must empower students to take ownership of their growth. Strengthening our reo, customs, and values is not just a goal—it’s a responsibility.
While my leadership vision supports Rutaki’s direction, I see opportunities to deepen metacognitive strategies, ensuring students understand how they learn, not just what they learn. Stronger collaboration with parents and the community will reinforce this foundation.
I am committed to leading with purpose, ensuring our students not only succeed academically, but also carry forward the strength of their culture with pride.
VISION ORAMA
Our Vision is for the school to work closely with our parents, and our community, to develop and
nurture in our students, the sustainability of the reo (Rarotonga), particular customs, protocols,
and values, which make Cook Islanders unique as a race.
At Rutaki School we shall achieve our vision by making sure our students develop into:
▪ Concerned and caring life-long learners who use their skills to
➢ Manage themselves
➢ Relate to others
➢ Use relevant communication tools
➢ Become critical thinkers
Respect themselves, others, their community, and culture to which they belong.
MOTTO KAVEINGA
Kia Pakari, Kia Tiratiratu
MISSION STATEMENT
Gaining lifelong wisdom and knowledge.
Kia Orana Renall
Thank you for sharing your powerful reflection and the heart of Apii Rutaki’s vision. Your leadership clearly centres on cultural integrity, educational empowerment, and deep community connection. It’s inspiring to see how your school not only upholds the values of Kia Pakari, Kia Tiratiratu, but lives them out in practical, student focused ways.
I really value your emphasis on nurturing identity and resilience in our students, and how your mission extends beyond academic success. The focus on lifelong learning, critical thinking, and especially strengthening metacognitive strategies, is a timely reminder that we must continue equipping our students to understand how they learn in order to become truly independent and reflective learners.
Your commitment to strengthening partnerships with parents and the wider community is something I deeply admire. It’s through this village approach that our tamariki gain the strongest foundation not only for learning, but for life.
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate all the incredible insights shared by our colleagues. Each vision, each value, and each leadership journey shared so far has given me renewed hope and inspiration. It’s a real privilege to be part of a forum where faith, culture, and purpose are front and centre in everything we do.
Meitaki maata e kia manuia,
Thank you Renall for sharing and I can see that your leadership vision at Rutaki school focuses on empowering students to succeed academically and culturally. You aim to nurture confident, self-managing learners who value their heritage. Your vision aligns with the school’s mission to develop lifelong learners who respect themselves, others and their culture.
Your key priorities includes:
– Preserving Cook Islands reo, custom and values.
– Fostering critical thinking, self-management and communication skills.
Your leadership approach embodies the schools motto, “Kia Pakari, Kia Tiratiratu, ” by promoting strength, resilience and cultural pride in our students.
This was clearly portrait by your students in the Tangi kaara competition.
Kia orana Renal,
Meitaki ranuinui no te share mai ta kotou vision – Koia tikai
Very powerful and deeply rooted in purpose. I really appreciate how you’ve highlighted that education is more than academic success; it’s also about identity, resilience, and community. Your commitment to nurturing confident learners who are proud of their heritage truly aligns with what many of us strive for in our own school communities.
As a leader, it’s inspiring to see how you’re embedding cultural pride into your vision for student success. That sense of belonging plays a huge role in helping learners grow not just in knowledge, but in self-worth.
Keep holding onto that vision, it’s leaders like you who will continue to shape learning spaces that are strong in both heart and purpose.
I’ve seen the way you work – One man job… That why I miss having you in our school at Apii Takitumu…
Kia orana to all,
For my school I will share the school motto as well as the school vision.
School Motto: Te Tango no te Kaveinga Tiratiratu. Learning foundations for successful journey.
It’s nurturing and building strong foundations for our children, faculties and communities, so they succeed in their journeys whether in school, life, career and so forth.
School Vision: Productive citizens, rich in culture, ready for the future. We want our children to maintain their identities, contribute positively and constructively to the development and growth of our school, kopu tangata, iti tangata and nation.
My vision aligns with the motto and vision because I want all students to be confident in themselves and believe that they are successful. How? By working together as a family, a team, anau, whanau of learners. I believe that our students and teachers need to have that solid relationship where trust is build and success will be achieved. Why is it important to have this relationship between students and teachers? So our tamariki will understand that we are not there to be the ‘mean, growling teacher’ 24/7. No, in fact we want to be there to guide our students and show them their next steps to work on because I know that our teachers want to see all students succeed – not just academically. Therefore, my vision is that all students have the potential successful in their learning journey.
At first I thought my style of leadership was instructional leader. An instructional leader puts into practice what they have developed through professional development or other course opportunities in the classroom and make sure that they follow through with these new skills and make sure that their team are also working on doing their best to practice this through their teaching practice. However, I realized that my leadership style is different. I see myself as a servant leader. I want to make sure that I adhere to the needs of my team and make sure they have the necessary help or resources needed to teach their students and guide them towards success. This also applies to serving the students and making sure that they have access to the help needed to be successful in their learning. This leadership style I have identified for myself aligns with the schools’ vision and motto as I want my students to see that working as a team, as a village shows them they don’t have to do things on their own to reach success. They have a village of teachers that are there to cheer them through all progress they make in their learning journey.
Meitaki maata.
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt reflection. I truly resonate with the emphasis on building strong foundations for our students lifelong journeys—academically, culturally, and personally. Like you, I believe that success is deeply rooted in the relationships we build with our learners and with each other as a teaching community.
The idea of the classroom as a village really stood out to me. When students know they have a whole team supporting them, it empowers them to take risks and grow confidently. I also appreciate your reflection on servant leadership—it is a reminder that leadership is ultimately about serving the needs of both students and staff to create a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.
Together, our shared vision and values guide us to nurture confident, culturally proud students ready to contribute positively to our community and beyond. Meitaki maata!
Meitaki maata for sharing your school’s motto and vision, as well as your personal leadership reflection. Your alignment with the values of Te Tango no te Kaveinga Tiratiratu and the vision of developing productive citizens, rich in culture, ready for the future is both inspiring and grounded in a deep understanding of the collective role we all play in shaping student success.
I especially appreciated your emphasis on building strong, trusting relationships between teachers and students. Your approach highlights a compassionate, learner-centered perspective, and your identification with servant leadership clearly reflects your commitment to supporting both your team and your learners holistically.Your analogy of a “village” is powerful, it speaks to the strength of community, collaboration, and shared responsibility in education. It’s clear that your leadership philosophy is not just about achieving outcomes, but about nurturing identity, belonging, and confidence along the journey.. I look forward to learning more from your insights and leadership practice.
Ms. Gina,
Your reflection on leadership style and vision is inspiring and thank you for sharing.
Tei mua koe e Georgina,
Meitaki ranuinui no te share mai ta kotou school motto — “Te Tango no te Kaveinga Tiratiratu. Learning foundations for a successful journey.” It beautifully captures the purpose of education as more than just knowledge, but as the groundwork for a meaningful and purposeful life.
Too good tikai especially how it reflects both cultural values and the importance of preparing learners for the future. It reminds us that every step we take in the classroom contributes to our students’ lifelong journey, not just academically, but also socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
I live next to your school in Nikao but my heart goes out to Takitumu… E PA KI TE RANGI….
My leadership is grounded in the core values of faith, compassion, equity, and service. Like my colleague Ben, I uphold our shared school vision: “Holistic formation through Catholic education,” and mission: “To touch the hearts and minds of the young by creating a Christ-centred inclusive environment which promotes equal opportunities for all. Through quality teaching and learning experiences, each person aspires and is free to build a better world in the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice and according to Catholic tradition.” These values guide both my personal and professional life. As a Catholic educator, I strive to lead with humility and integrity, placing the needs of others before myself. This approach shapes a leadership style that is relational, inclusive, and rooted in Gospel values.
I believe students learn best in environments where they feel safe, valued, and supported. Learning is more than academic—it includes emotional, social, spiritual, and cultural growth. Teachers are not only instructors but also mentors and facilitators, guiding students to grow holistically. We are called to inspire, challenge, and accompany our learners on their journey.
As a leader, I aspire to positively influence school culture, ensuring every student—especially the most vulnerable—has the opportunity to thrive. My goal is to create inclusive systems, build strong relationships, and promote a culture of shared leadership grounded in faith.
The leadership styles that resonate most with me are servant leadership and transformational leadership. Servant leadership aligns with our Catholic mission, focusing on love, empathy, and putting others first. Transformational leadership complements this by encouraging vision, inspiration, and meaningful change.
A resource that supports our school’s mission well is the article on Servant Leadership by PositivePsychology.com. It highlights the importance of empathy, stewardship, and community-building—all central to our goal of creating a Christ-centred, inclusive environment where we genuinely touch the hearts and minds of the young. This reflection affirmed that effective Catholic school leadership must centre on faith, inclusion, and holistic formation, continuing the legacy of Blessed Edmund Rice in every decision we make.
Wow! Another beautiful post Henrianna and I can see you leading this with your students as well as your work colleagues. I especially love that you cater to all students including our tamariki that need space of their own to thrive in their own unique way.
Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful and heartfelt reflection. Your leadership philosophy, grounded in faith, compassion, equity, and service, beautifully echoes the mission and vision of your school and the values of Catholic education.
I particularly appreciate how clearly you articulate the connection between servant and transformational leadership in your practice. The balance between empathy, community-building, and visionary change is a powerful approach especially in nurturing environments where every learner is seen, heard, and valued.
Your emphasis on holistic development aligns with my own belief that student success goes beyond academics. When we create safe, inclusive spaces that affirm identity and promote wellbeing, we empower our tamariki to thrive not just in school, but in life.
I also found your reference to the article on Servant Leadership from PositivePsychology.com both timely and relevant. It reinforces how intentional, faith-based leadership can shape not only individual outcomes but also a stronger collective culture within our schools.
Meitaki maata for your inspiring reflection and for the important work you do in leading with purpose and heart.
Kia orana kia koe e Ben. I love your response it is truly beautiful and I do believe your vison not only aligns with your school’s vision but I can also see you living out this vision you are aiming for as I see you living and breathing this through your every day lessons you teach to your students or whoever you teach with a passionate heart in the community. I love your example of Te Tangi Kaara and I agree, seeing our students shining on this night was definitely a beautiful success showcasing their own cultural talents. Another example I can add to that, that shows you being a transformational leader was your dedication to helping your students be successful in the cultural team for Nukutere College. You are one that works in the background, but, you want every child to not only be successful but be proud of themselves standing on stage performing for their school and for their culture – and no academic levels required just pure passion. Well done on this vision and I know you will continue to strive for the leader you have in mind!
Kia Orana Karangaranga,
Our school’s vision and mission strongly focus on holistic formation and creating a Christ-centred, inclusive environment for all learners. As a leader, I feel my personal vision aligns well with this. I believe in growing the whole person, not just academically, but also spiritually, socially, and emotionally. Transitional leadership was interesting, a style that guides others through change and encourages teamwork, which supports our school’s aim for quality teaching and learning. One quote that stood out to me from readings is from Mark Zuckerberg: “Getting the people right, and getting the culture right, matters the most.” This reminds me of how important it is for our staff and leadership team to work together with unity. When we feel connected and supported, we can achieve much more for our students. Student success means more than just academic results. It also means feeling valued, being confident in their culture, forming strong relationships, and growing emotionally. Every student has their own strengths, and we must provide support that fits their needs, especially those with learning or social challenges.
Definition for task two: just wanted to share this 😊
here is what I discussed at school, “Every student achieving personal growth, feeling a sense of belonging, and being supported to reach their full potential in all areas of life.” This includes cultural pride. Last week we had Tangi Kaara and a lot of us on this forum had the opportunity to witness student talent, a testament that shows not all students maybe bright academics but are bright in other educational areas, one area being language and culture. Student success.
No te Atua e te Ipukarea.
Thank you for sharing Ben, such a thoughtful reflection. I really connected with your words, especially because we both serve under the same school mission and vision—to provide holistic formation through Catholic education and to touch the hearts and minds of the young in a Christ-centred, inclusive environment.
Your focus on growing the whole person—spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically—really resonates with my own leadership values. I also liked how you highlighted transformational leadership and its connection to teamwork. Like you, I believe that when our staff feel supported and united, our students benefit in every way.
The quote from Mark Zuckerberg made me reflect too—culture and people are everything, especially in a Catholic school where we are called to lead with compassion and purpose.
Your definition of student success is beautiful. I was also inspired by what we saw at Tangi Kaara. It reminded me that student success is not just about grades—it’s about confidence, cultural pride, and helping every learner find their place to shine. Thanks again for sharing—you have given me a lot to reflect on too. Meitaki!
Thank you Ben for sharing such a meaningful and well articulated reflection. Your alignment with your school’s vision of holistic formation within a Christ centred, inclusive environment is evident in both your values and leadership approach.
I really appreciated your emphasis on growing the whole person spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically. Your mention of transitional leadership and its role in supporting change and teamwork aligns well with the collaborative culture we strive for in our schools. The Mark Zuckerberg quote you referenced also resonates deeply; when we get the people and the culture right, the impact on student outcomes is truly powerful.
Your definition of student success is both inclusive and inspiring: “Every student achieving personal growth, feeling a sense of belonging, and being supported to reach their full potential in all areas of life.” It encapsulates what many of us believe that success takes many forms and must reflect each learner’s strengths, identity, and journey.
The reference to Tangi Kaara was a beautiful reminder of how student success shines beyond the academic space. Celebrating cultural expression and student talent is essential in affirming identity and fostering pride in our Ipukarea.
Thank you for your authentic contribution. Your vision and leadership continue to reflect a deep care for our tamariki and the values that uplift our communities.
Mako tikai koe e Tauraatua taau akakitekite mai anga taau angaanga meitaki e rave nei – AE it really resonated with me. I love how you’ve highlighted personal growth, belonging, and potential as key markers of student success. It’s such a powerful reminder that success isn’t only measured by academic achievement, but also by how students thrive in other areas, especially language and culture.
The School Culture Festival and Tangi Kaara events was such a beautiful example of this. It was inspiring to see students shine in their own unique ways—demonstrating talent, confidence, and cultural pride. I agree wholeheartedly that recognising these strengths is just as important as celebrating academic milestones.
Meitaki maata for your insight.