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How long have you been an educator, and where did you train?
I’ve been an educator for 42 years. I gained a Bachelor of Science and a master’s in education administration at Massey University Palmerston North, and was teacher trained at Auckland College of Education in Epsom.
Why did you choose to become an educator?
As a young person I was lucky enough to be awarded an AFS experience to the USA for a
year. During that time, I had to present to various groups and classes about NZ. This hooked me into teaching. My sister went teaching and she encouraged me to do the same. Since then, I have never looked back, and I have been an educator for 42 years spending 36 of those years at Tuakau College — an awesome community and kura (school) to be involved in.
When did you become the principal of Tuakau College?
I became the principal of Tuakau College in 2004 and have been the principal since then, for 21 years! I had taught at Tuakau College as a science teacher (prior to becoming principal) from 1984 to 1992. I have been associated with the college for 30 years.
What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal?
The best thing about being an educator and principal is seeing students grow both
academically and personally and achieve the very best in all things, then to follow this
whakataukii, and go on to reach their goals and fulfil their dreams in life after school.
What’s special about Tuakau College?
Tuakau College is special because of its inclusive multi-cultural nature, and it has strong
community connections. The willingness to continually improve for the benefit of the
students is evident. The philosophy of the first board and principal is seen as the staff and
students ‘walk the talk.’
Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector?
- More collaboration between teachers doing the mahi (work) and the decision makers.
- Make teaching more attractive to young graduates.
- Effective graduated change instead of it all happening at once.
- Improved conditions of work for all staff in schools.
- Time to make the changes necessary for raising standards.
- A strong, publicly funded education system that accepts differences in diversity, ethnicity, and ability.
How is the relationship between Tuakau College and its immediate local community?
Tuakau College has great connections with its local community. We are always liaising with
local iwi/marae, local youth groups, outside providers, local businesses, community groups
and our local primary and community of learning schools.
What did Tuakau College do to celebrate the end of the year?
We have been celebrating student success with our three prizegivings (senior, middle and
junior colleges). We celebrated the Year 13 students as they are leaving secondary school and moving into their tertiary side of their lives. We have had Year 8, 9, and 10 camps. We will celebrated the turning of the new turf for the new six-classroom block in the Elizabeth Street car park.
