The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

In this episode, we explore how principals can effectively support teachers through the professional growth cycle – moving beyond the old appraisal system to create meaningful, growth-focused practice. Our guests share practical strategies for using data effectively, fostering professional curiosity, and creating systems that support teachers before challenges become competency concerns.
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
Our guests are:
Rose-Anne London from the Teaching Council
Stephanie Thompson, principal of Beachhaven School in Auckland
Isaac Day, former tumuaki and leadership advisor in Nelson/Tasman
Additional information
Teaching Council https://teachingcouncil.nz/professional-practice/professional-growth-cycle/

In this episode, we explore the leadership challenges and opportunities that come with implementing curriculum and pedagogical changes in schools. Our guests share their approaches to leading educational transformation, from building staff knowledge and confidence to creating sustainable change that improves student outcomes.
Hosted by Mārama Stewart.
Our guests are:
Arihia Stirling, tumuaki of Te Kura Māori o Ngā Tapuwae
Catherine Law, principal of Avonside Girls’ High School
Lorraine Taylor, principal of Silverstream School.

In this episode, we discover how this free, confidential service helps school leaders navigate challenges from board conflicts to strategic planning, and why reaching out for support - even when you don't need anything - can transform your leadership journey.
 
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
 
Our guests are:
Former Leadership Advisor Phil Toomer, principal of Meadowbank School in Auckland
Former Leadership Advisor Jackie Barron, principal of St Hilda’s Collegiate School in Dunedin
Leadership Advisor Melissa Anderton
Leadership Advisor Amy Hacker.
 
Additional information
Ministry of Education Leadership Advisors - https://workforce.education.govt.nz/principals-and-schools/professional-development-and-support-principals/leadership-advisors

In this episode, we get into the planning and preparation required to successfully launch a new school year. As the end of the summer holidays nears, principals across Aotearoa will be orchestrating one of the most critical periods in the school calendar - ensuring everything is ready for students and staff to return to a well-prepared and welcoming learning environment.
Our guests share practical insights into the multi-layered preparation process, from managing staff recruitment and timetabling through to facility maintenance, technology readiness, and establishing the right culture and tone for the year ahead.
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
Today’s guests are:
Jason Miles, tumuaki of Kaiapoi North School and Vice President of NZPF
Rohan Pearse, tumuaki of Frimley School
Dawn Akroyd, principal of Napier Girls’ High School.
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

Ever thought about swapping city school leadership for rural life?
 
From misconceptions, like assuming rural schools would be "easier", to learning unexpected skills like animal husbandry and septic tank management, our guests talk about the unique rewards of leading schools where community connections run generations deep.
 
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
 
Today’s guests are:
Andrew King, principal of Oropi School and president of the NZ Rural Schools Leadership Association
Alistair Schaw, principal at Aokautere School near Palmerston North
Kylie Piper, tumuaki of Arapohue School in Northland
 
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz
 
Additional information:
 
New Zealand Rural Schools Leadership Association https://www.nzrasla.ac.nz

In this episode, we continue discussing the Professional Growth Cycle for principals, diving deeper into practical implementation, with real examples of how PGC work has helped our guests navigate leadership challenges. We also talk about common pitfalls  principals encounter, and offer advice for people struggling to get started.
 
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
 
Our guests are:
Rose-Anne London from the Teaching Council
Ben Hutchings, tumuaki of Mountain View School in Mangere, Auckland
John Channer, principal at Fraser Crescent School in Upper Hutt, Wellington.
 
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

In this episode, we discuss the Professional Growth Cycle for principals. We’ll talk about how the approach to principal development has evolved from the old ‘banana boxes of evidence’ system to a trust-based model that prioritises meaningful professional learning and honest feedback, and our guests share practical insights on setting impactful goals, building accountability into peer networks, and creating spaces for both professional challenge and emotional support.
 
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
 
Our guests are:
Rose-Anne London from the Teaching Council
Ben Hutchings, tumuaki of Mountain View School in Mangere, Auckland
John Channer, principal at Fraser Crescent School in Upper Hutt, Wellington.
 
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz
 
Additional information
Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand https://teachingcouncil.nz/ 

In this episode, we explore how educational leaders can move beyond tick-box compliance to genuinely embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into their school culture. Our guests share their personal journeys, practical strategies, and honest reflections on what it truly means to create bicultural learning environments where all students thrive. Hosted by Mārama Stewart.
Today’s guests are:
Billie-Jean Pōtaka Ayton, tumuaki of Kaiti School in Gisborne
Mel Jewiss, former tumuaki and now Maori Achievement Collaborative (MAC) facilitator
Robyn Isaacson, principal of Flaxmere Primary School
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

What are the first 100 days in the principal role really like? From navigating unexpected challenges and building relationships with staff, students, and whānau, to establishing their leadership vision while managing the day-to-day complexities of school operations, our guests share candid insights about what it really takes to transition into principalship. Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
Today’s guests are:
Lori Mravicich, tumuaki of Waiau Pā School
Tony Baird, principal of Karamea Area School
Richard Washington, principal of Nelson College
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

We continue to talk about attendance in this episode, exploring proven strategies for boosting student attendance through meaningful partnerships. Hear how building strong relationships and addressing root causes—rather than just symptoms—can create lasting change in attendance patterns and student outcomes.
A note that attendance services mentioned in this episode were correct at the time of recording.
Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.
My guests are:
Mandy Dodds, tumuaki of Kumara School on the West Coast
Chris Bean, principal of Tangaroa College in Otara, Auckland
James Christie, tumuaki of Mauku School in the Franklin district
This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.
 
You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz