EMPOWERING LEARNERS - WHAKAMANA AAKONGA
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Professional Summary
Experienced and committed educational leader with a strong record of achievement in curriculum leadership, staff management, and culturally responsive practice. Currently Deputy Principal and SENCo, I bring expertise in leading learning across mathematics (PR1ME Maths), health, ICT, and Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L), while ensuring student wellbeing and achievement remain at the centre of decision-making. With extensive experience working with Boards of Trustees, leading professional development, and embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice, I am well-prepared to lead a vibrant, future-focused school community.
Very passionate about the re-formed Curriculum and how this can benefit teachers and children.
Key Skills & Leadership Competencies
Educational Leadership
Acting Principal and extensive Deputy Principal experience, syndicate/team leadership, curriculum oversight, mentoring.
My leadership style emphasizes empowerment, motivating teams to pursue excellence while focusing on the holistic development of students.
Working with the Board to develop, refine and implement their learning community vision.
Experienced in conflict resolution, upholding mana and integrity.
Collaboration
Strong interpersonal skills enable me to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, ensuring a shared vision for educational success.
Develop strong relationships with local iwi to support an integrated vision.
Lead Kahui Ako AP/DP group, working with AP/DPs across 22 schools, organising PLD, attending Kahui Ako Principal hui and attending PLD opportunities.
Working alongside iwi and District Community members to include children in the development of a destination playground.
Innovation
I am committed to continuous professional growth, staying updated on educational trends and best practices that benefit the learning community.
Implement and encourage a culture of care among staff, students and the wider community, reinforcing respect for all - Anchored in MANA
Started Bush School for disengaged children, involved community members and improved attendance.
Curriculum Development
Leadership in mathematics, health, PE, IT, curriculum implementation and integration.
Culturally Responsive Practice
Commitment to localised curriculum, tikanga Māori, and inclusive practice for diverse learners.
Student Wellbeing & Behaviour
SENCo responsibilities, restorative practices, PB4L leadership, IEP development.
Governance & Compliance
Regular reporting to Boards, budget oversight, policy implementation, health & safety, property projects.
Community Engagement
Organised schoolwide and community events, fostered strong whānau partnerships.
Strong relationships with local iwi, Ngaati Wairere and Hukanui Marae.
Professional Development Leadership
Facilitated PLDs, staff coaching, induction, and appraisal processes.
Inviting stakeholders participation in regular reflection and commitment to self- improvement.
Most Recent PLD
Leadership in Local Curriculum - University Of Waikato
Poutama Pounamu - Equity, Excellence, Belonging - University of Waikato
Te Reo Māori Level 2 and 3 - Te Ahu o Te Reo
Various Learning Support workshops
Various Budget and finance workshops
Structured Literacy PLD - Liz Kane
Structured Maths PLD - MOE