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How long have you been an educator, and where did you train?
I’ve been an educator for almost 30 years. I trained as a secondary teacher in Auckland and have since held a wide range of teaching and leadership roles. My first teaching position was at St Peter’s College in Auckland, before spending the next two decades abroad working in schools across the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
When did you become the principal of ACG Strathallan School?
I became Executive Principal of ACG Strathallan in July 2017.
What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal?
The best part of my role is watching young people grow in confidence, character, and capability.
No two days are the same, and it’s a privilege to work alongside students, staff, and families to help shape futures. As principal, I get to see the big picture – celebrating successes, supporting people, and making decisions that have a meaningful and positive impact on our community.
What’s special about ACG Strathallan School?
ACG Strathallan is a values-driven school with a strong sense of community. Our students are known, supported, and encouraged to be their authentic selves. We uphold high standards and academic expectations, offer an outstanding co-curricular programme, and foster a campus culture built on pride, integrity, respect, and compassion. It’s a place where students genuinely want to do well, and where teachers go above and beyond to help them succeed.
Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector?
One of the biggest challenges across the sector is attracting, developing, and retaining great teachers. Excellent teachers are at the heart of every successful school, and continued investment in their training, support, and professional growth is essential.
We have been part of the Auckland Secondary Teachers’ Training Programme over the past two years, a Waikato University initiative that provides on-the-job training in much the same way as an apprenticeship. Programmes like this are vital if we want to bring talented people into the profession and ensure they are well prepared for the realities of the classroom.
How is the relationship between ACG Strathallan School and its immediate local community?
Our relationship with the local community is very positive. Many families have deep, long-standing connections with the school, and we are proud to play an active role in the Karaka and Papakura areas. Our students regularly participate in community events, service initiatives, and cultural activities, and we value the strong partnerships we have with local organisations.
ACG Strathallan has always been shaped by its community, and we see ourselves as a school that gives back.
