The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

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Experienced school leaders and officials share stories and offer tips about leading schools in Aotearoa New Zealand. This series sits alongside the online learning programme: Te Ara Tīmatanga mō ngā Tumuaki | The Beginning Pathway for Principals, which can be accessed on the Education LMS https://training.education.govt.nz.

  1. 1D AGO

    Season 2 Episode 26 Turning constraints into opportunities - Rural school innovation

    In this episode, we explore how rural schools are transforming their unique challenges into remarkable opportunities for innovation. Our guests talk about structuring learning across multiple year levels, the advantages of knowing every student deeply, and how rural communities become active partners in education. We discuss flexible learning progressions, student agency, and the creative ways small schools capitalise on their local environments - from native gullies and river trails to AgriKids programmes and community expertise.   Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.   Our guests are: Lisa Bates, principal at Upper Atiamuri School in South Waikato Greg Allan, tumuaki of South Makiriri School in Rangitikei Jane Cochran, vice-president of NZRASLA and tumuaki of Brunswick School near Whanganui   Additional information RASLA - New Zealand Rural and Primary and Area School Leadership Association https://www.nzrasla.ac.nz

    21 min

  2. FEB 10

    Season 2 Episode 25 Leading to the North-East with Russell Bishop, part 2

    In the second part of this kōrero, Russell Bishop explains why pedagogy must lead structural change, how meaningful feedback transforms teaching practice, and the importance of implementing proven approaches with fidelity. He reflects on cutting through the constant noise of educational reform, his vision of of seeing all learners—Māori and Pākehā alike—thriving with confidence and competence, and the deep satisfaction of seeing his research make a real difference in schools. Hosted by Mārama Stewart.

    19 min

  3. FEB 3

    Season 2 Episode 24 Leading to the North-East with Russell Bishop, part 1

    Professor Russell Bishop explores how whakawhanaungatanga transforms classrooms and schools. He challenges deficit thinking, explains the North-East teaching framework, and argues that relationships aren't just about being nice—they're the foundation for high expectations and accountability. Russell discusses how effective principals support teachers the same way teachers should support students: with care, rigour, and unwavering belief in potential. Hosted by Mārama Stewart.

    25 min

  4. JAN 27

    Season 2 Episode 23 Learning leaders: Putting research into practice

    In the second part of this conversation about learning leaders, we explore how our guests principals put their research into practice, with three powerful examples of research-informed change - from student-led conferences to building professional learning communities - plus practical advice for time-poor principals on developing a research mindset. Hosted by Eleisha. Our guests are: Cherie Taylor-Patel, principal at Flanshaw Road School in West Auckland Robin Fabish, leadership advisor and former tumuaki of Tamatea High School in Napier Isaac Day, leadership advisor and former tumuaki of Enner Glynn Primary School in Nelson

    22 min

  5. JAN 20

    Season 2 Episode 22 Learning leaders: Developing a research mindset

    In a world where education trends come and go at lightning speed, how do exceptional school leaders separate the game-changers from the gimmicks? This episode explores why the most effective principals aren't just consumers of education – they're critical thinkers who build their leadership practice on solid evidence rather than wishful thinking. Over the next two episodes, we'll discover how developing a professional reading habit and research mindset helps you ask the right questions, spot patterns others miss, and lead change that actually sticks. From navigating conflicting research to translating insights into practical school improvements, learn why thinking like a researcher – whether you're pursuing a doctorate or simply committed to lifelong learning – might be the most powerful tool in your leadership toolkit. Hosted by Eleisha McNeill. Our guests are: Cherie Taylor-Patel, principal at Flanshaw Road School in West Auckland Robin Fabish, leadership advisor and former tumuaki of Tamatea High School in Napier Isaac Day, leadership advisor and former tumuaki of Enner Glynn Primary School in Nelson.

    22 min

  6. JAN 13

    Season 2 Episode 21 Changing hearts and minds with Hoana Pearson

    In this episode, we explore the transformative work of the Māori Achievement Collaborative (MAC) with Hoana Pearson, Te Pitau Mātautanga, the national coordinator for MAC. Hoana shares her journey from believing she couldn't learn to becoming a principal determined to ensure every child knows they can succeed. We discuss the power of authenticity in leadership, and how MAC works to change hearts and minds through courageous conversations about educational equity and cultural responsiveness. Hosted by Mārama Stewart.

    32 min

  7. 12/16/2025

    Season 2 Episode 20 Practical strategies for self-care

    As the summer break approaches, this episode explores essential self-care strategies for principals. The conversation covers creating boundaries during holidays, maintaining wellbeing throughout the year, and practical approaches including setting firm finish dates, prioritising activities outside education, and the importance of being fully present. Our guests discuss reframing rest as essential leadership practice rather than optional luxury. Hosted by Eleisha McNeill Our guests are: Roger Phillipson, psychologist at the Ministry of Education Heidi Haywood, principal of Dunedin North Intermediate Michael Fletcher, principal of Chaucer School.

    36 min

  8. 12/09/2025

    Season 2 Episode 19 Choosing effective PLD

    Every year, principals face the same challenge: with limited time and budgets, how do you choose professional learning opportunities that will genuinely improve teaching and student outcomes? This episode combines insights from ERO's research on PLD effectiveness with practical, real-world strategies for making smarter professional development decisions. While ERO found that most school leaders were strategic in their choices, many struggled to evaluate whether their PLD actually shifted teaching practices or improved student outcomes. Our guests will share their approaches for identifying genuine learning needs, vetting PLD providers, and ensuring professional development translates into classroom improvements. From asking the right questions before committing to a programme to building systems that sustain learning beyond the workshop, discover how to move beyond professional development that looks good on paper to PLD that creates lasting change for both you and your staff.   Hosted by Eleisha McNeill   Our guests are: Alistair Sinton, tumuaki of Mount Maunganui College Jen Rodgers, principal of St Clair Primary School and on the NZPF executive Elena Moretti, director of engagement and impact at the National Research Centre   Additional information Principal Development Map (MOE) with PLD recommendations https://workforce.education.govt.nz/principals-and-schools/professional-development-and-support-principals/principal-development-map

    31 min
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Experienced school leaders and officials share stories and offer tips about leading schools in Aotearoa New Zealand. This series sits alongside the online learning programme: Te Ara Tīmatanga mō ngā Tumuaki | The Beginning Pathway for Principals, which can be accessed on the Education LMS https://training.education.govt.nz.

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