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Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua
I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past
Kia Ora Koutou e te Whanau,
Te Tiriti o Waitangi
As we came together to commemorate Waitangi Day, a pivotal occasion on the Māori calendar, we found ourselves reflecting on the essence of not only this significant day but also Te Tiriti itself. Waitangi Day has always held a special place in the hearts of Māori, providing a unique opportunity to show unity in partnership, amplify voices, and convey powerful messages. I am heartened to see Tangata Tiriti join with Tangata whenua.
Whether you had the privilege of attending the celebrations at Waitangi itself, participated in local events, or tuned in through the lens of your television, one thing remains abundantly clear – Waitangi Day serves as a platform for the realization and enactment of a profound partnership between Tangata Whenua and Tangata Tiriti.
Waitangi Day is not just about festivity; it is an invitation to deepen our understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi through open dialogue and active listening. The korero exchanged during this time creates a space for our nation to learn, grow, and forge stronger connections . The Whakatauki, “Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua.”- I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past - reminds us that our relationships with the past play a pivotal role in shaping our future.
The recent happenings at the Waitangi Treaty grounds serve as a poignant reminder to all who call Aotearoa home. They highlight the importance of acknowledging our shared history and working collaboratively towards a future that reflects the values of collectivism, respect, and partnership. As leaders in our schools let us continue to honour the spirit of Waitangi, Te Tiriti and strive for a more inclusive, understanding, and harmonious Aotearoa.
Looking forward in education
Embracing the wisdom of 'Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua' resonates in education. As educational leaders, we possess invaluable insights into what works and what doesn't. Our past experiences inform the way we examine new policies amplifying the importance of consultation with policy makers. We bring the wisdom of our practitioner voice, our years of pedagogical development, research, and classroom experience to inform decision makers and help them see the implications of new policy ideas. In the absence of balanced debate, policies can be imposed that do not contribute to advancing the learning success of our Tamariki.
Recognizing the vital link between positive partnerships and effective governance, we call for policy consultation, between our elected Peak Body Groups and Government so we can contribute to shaping an improved education for our young people. NZPF and other Peak Body Groups are critical voices that bring valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue on educational policy and its impact on our young people.
Martin Thrupp
Reflecting on the past takes on added significance as we acknowledge the sad passing of Professor Martin Thrupp, a luminary in the realm of education policy and leadership. NZPF represented principals at his memorial service in February, to offer our condolences to his whanau and to recognise his incredible gift to education over his career. His academic pursuits, examining the complexities of school reform at international, national and local levels, exemplify his commitment to understanding the historical foundations – with his eyes on the past – to shape a better educational landscape for the future. Martin’s extensive research, collaborations, and notable publications, including his most recent 'Finland’s Famous Education System – Unvarnished insights into Finnish Schooling,' highlight his dedication to providing critical insights into educational systems worldwide. As we mourn the loss of this influential figure, let us draw inspiration from his contributions, reinforcing the importance of informed, collaborative discourse in shaping the future of education, ensuring it aligns with our collective vision for improved outcomes.
Exciting News: NZPF Wins Bid to Host ICP World Convention 2026!
I am thrilled to share some incredible news that will hopefully lift your spirits! NZPF has been successful in winning the bid to host the International Confederation of Principals (ICP) World Convention in 2026, catapulting New Zealand's education community onto the global stage.
Our sincere thanks go to the collective efforts of the Initial Organising Committee, with invaluable support from the Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) and Tourism New Zealand's Conference Assistance Programme. Endorsements from principals nationwide, alongside the Mayor of Auckland, the former Minister of Education, and the former Prime Minister, played a crucial role in securing this prestigious event.
Scheduled for September 2026 at the ‘yet to be completed’ New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), in Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, the convention is expected to welcome around 3,000 principals from across the globe. This marks a significant milestone, as New Zealand last hosted the event in 2007.
Hosting the Convention in New Zealand will expose educators to the world's leading educational research presenters, including showcasing our own. It's a tremendous opportunity. Our reputation for integrating Te Ao Māori in our curriculum practises was a key factor to our success. The Convention will provide a platform for educators globally to exchange ideas, share best practices, and address common challenges faced post-Covid, including student attendance and achievement issues, as well as the challenges of artificial intelligence.
I anticipate a substantial turnout, as Aotearoa, New Zealand's allure, as a tourist destination, will be a draw card. With a magnificent new venue, the convention also offers a chance to celebrate Tamaki Makaurau - Auckland, and allow our visitors the unique opportunity to explore schools throughout the city.
In hosting the ICP World Convention in 2026, New Zealand stands poised to showcase its educational excellence, cultural richness, and warm hospitality to the global community of principals. NZPF has established a committed group of Sector Representatives to support the planning of the Convention. A formal launch and media release is expected to be made tomorrow.
Ngā Pou E Whā
To listen, to learn, to act.
Pou Tahi - Te Kaiarahitanga / Leadership
Stephanie Thompson, Jason Miles, Leanne Otene, Jen Rodgers
This year, we are excited about progressing the work we began last year working with the Ministry’s Chief Advisor and the Principal Leadership Advisors (PLAs). For example:
- We have worked together to establish and progress initiatives, through the PLAs, that support a coherent and coordinated focus on principal leadership and mentoring.
- Introduced a formal Induction Programme
- Advanced work on a Principal Development Database.
- Held discussions on endorsement and quality assurance of PLD.
- Discussed strategies for principal recruitment and retention.
- Increased opportunities for principals to further their careers through secondments as Leadership Advisors.
These activities are essential work for NZPF and provide coherence for a Principal Leadership Centre, which most jurisdictions around the world operate. Our education system needs good policies and tools to support the right people into leadership of our schools. High quality schools have strong leadership, which generates excellent outcomes for learners.
At our first national executive hui in January, Chief Leadership Advisor, Tim White, a former principal, updated us on his team of Advisors, who are almost all seconded practicing principals. Leadership Advisors coach, mentor and advise on all matters pertaining to school leadership. They work face to face with individual principals and with Principals’ Associations and Kahui Ako groups. They work on an invitation basis so here are the names of the PLAs in your area.
One of the strengths of the Leadership Advisory is their evaluative processes, which provide an ongoing record of the number of principals engaging with them, and the topics on which principals are seeking support. This assists in making improvements and planning the future of the service.
For example, in 2023, Leadership Advisors met with individual principals 2,072 times, with principal associations 144 times and with Kahui Ako or clusters of principals 245 times. Half of all contact with Leadership Advisors is initiated by principals themselves and 75% of engagement is face-to-face. Principals rate the service from Leadership Advisors to be excellent. Some of the issues they assist with include removing barriers, advising, and sharing ideas on how other principals have responded to an issue, clarifying the principal’s role, helping principals reflect on their practice, supporting principal wellbeing, and positively influencing the principal’s future. They are responsive to changes and will be preparing to advise on the ‘cell phones away’, one hour of reading writing and math, and assessment policies as they emerge. Leadership Advisors report that they value the secondment to upskill and advance their careers in a different leadership role.
We value NZPF's working relationship with the Principal Leadership Advisory Service - This is an example of the Ministry and the Sector working together to make a difference for Principals and our ākonga. We are committed to progressing this mahi in 2024.
Pou Rua - Te Marautanga / Curriculum
Heidi Hayward, Shane Buckner and Blair Dravitski
You will have been keenly watching for the information coming from the Ministry of Education on the ‘one hour a day’ for reading, writing and maths policy.
To assist you with this programme change, the Ministry released a series of timetable templates, intended as exemplars which you could use as a starting point in constructing your own school timetables for 2024.
NZPF provided feedback to the Ministry about the suggested templates which did not strongly reflect the practice of integrating these subjects. The Ministry responded immediately, providing a new set of timetable options. Please click here to locate the information on the Tāhūrangi - New Zealand Curriculum website - to view the templates along with other resources.
Remember that these templates are suggestions, intended to help guide you through the process. Principals are experts at managing their own integrated curriculum and will continue to work with their teachers to ensure that the ‘One-hour-a-day’ for reading, writing and maths policy is met.
It has been suggested that ERO may monitor and report on compliance with the reading, writing, and maths teaching time requirements, through the Board Assurance processes. We will be exploring this issue with ERO and will publish updates.
Pou Toru - Students / Ākonga / Inclusive Education
Hayley Read, John Bangma, Phil Palfrey and Tracy Fraser
To bolster existing measures aimed at curbing vaping, we propose the adoption of a comprehensive flowchart as a procedural aid.
The provided example, crafted by Principals in Rotorua, outlines a regional systematic approach covering identification, reporting, assessment, intervention, documentation, collaboration with families, educational initiatives, and periodic reviews. We advocate for similar guides to be developed across schools in consultation with communities and School Boards. The actions taken will then be designed and implemented by schools in the Region. The Rotorua response may not suit all schools and communities so time must be taken to discuss the special nature of your school community and implications for your ākonga.
By cultivating a collaborative Regional approach, School Boards and principals can collectively uphold the health and well-being of students, in harmony with the Act's principles. Through proactive measures, we strive to establish and maintain safe, healthy, vape-free learning environments, demonstrating our dedication to community welfare. Let's come together to address these challenges and ensure the well-being of our students.
Pou Whā - Te Tikanga Ture/ Policy/ Systems
Julie Hepburn, Gavin Beere, Karen Brisco
2024 has begun with several policy changes, as the Government continues work on their 100 - Day Plan.
Below are some key reminders:
Restraint training: 7th February deadline for teachers and authorised staff members to have completed the online learning module about the Physical Restraint Guidelines - Aramai He Tētēkura
Phones away for the day: We have to implement this policy as soon as possible in Term 1 2024, and no later than the start of Term 2 2024. The key is to make sure you share your expectations with your community.
“One hour a day”: Teaching requirement - see Pou Rua’s report.
Helpline 0800 798 798: This is our NZPF service to you. When you contact the Helpline, an NZPF executive member will support you with any matter causing you difficulty, or arrange for an experienced colleague to contact you, and support you to decide how best to proceed. Do not hesitate to call the helpline anytime.
PASL - NZPF Principals’ Advice and Support [Legal] Scheme: This is an NZPF service designed for you as an employee of the Board. Follow the link on our website to join. We strongly recommend that you join this scheme for your own peace of mind.
Ministry Update - Holidays Act remediation payment
The Ministry of Education is making a remediation payment towards Holidays Act arrears to about 5,400 school employees on 20 February 2024.
The payment is based on an initial estimate for public holidays on days that would have been otherwise working days for short-term relief teachers. It covers the period from 28 January 2022 to 27 January 2023.
This is part of a programme of work to address non-compliance with the Holidays Act 2003 to ensure school employees receive what they are owed.
For more details about the payment and to contact the Ministry’s dedicated query management team, see the Ministry’s website.
Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua
I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past
Ngā mihi,
Leanne
NZPF President
Applications for Grants
Applications for grants close on the 1st of March 2024. Please find the links to the application forms below:
PLD Grants for Principal Associations
Trans-Tasman Conference 2024, Christchurch
Early Bird registration for the Trans-Tasman Conference 2024 in Christchurch is now open, click this link to access the website.
For Regional Presidents: NZPF MOOT 2024
NZPF Moot 2024
Date: Friday 22 March 2024
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm followed by social hour
Venue: The Lambton Ballroom, The Intercontinental Wellington, 2 Grey Street
More details to follow, if all Regional Presidents could please mark this in their calendar and RSVP before Friday 6 March at admin@nzpf.ac.nz then it would be much appreciated.
PASL Subscription Fee Adjustment
At their most recent meeting, the Board of Directors of the Principals Advice and (Legal) Support Scheme (PASL) agreed to a subscription fee increase from $390 to $440 per year, effective 1 January 2024.
The increase will apply from the anniversary date of the principal’s PASL contract, as it is renewed, after 1 January 2024. Any contract due for renewal between now and 1 January 2024 will be renewed at the existing fee of $390.
The PASL subscription fee has not been increased in the past ten years and the maximum legal support for a single issue has been increased from $25,000 to $30,000 in the past year. The reason for the subscription increase is to cover the increased administration and legal support costs of PASL.
You and/or your team members can easily access the NZ Principal Magazines online, as an e-magazine or as a PDF. Additionally you can search for a previous issue, an article by title or by the author of the article. All magazines back to Term 1 2012 are available in this format. To view or search click here.
Introducing NZPF's Newest Business Partner - SmartGrass
At SmartGrass, our commitment to excellence goes beyond providing exceptional artificial grass, sports turf and safe clean play spaces. We pride ourselves on forging strong partnerships with New Zealand schools and understanding their needs. So we’re really excited to be furthering our support of the NZPF and its members in becoming a Bronze Business Partner.
We celebrate that each school is unique in its character, setting and community with distinct aspirations focused on providing outstanding learning environments for their tamariki. This inspires us to be creative and connected to what is possible to support schools with great spaces and places to foster safe exploration, socialisation and growth of each student.
We’re really looking forward to working closely with NZPF and Principals and to assist in unlocking the potential of school’s spaces throughout the country and all the benefits that brings.
Please click on the following link to learn more about this 100% NZ owned partner and how to connect.
Kerry Forde
General Manager
SmartGrass
Getting Started — Support for New School Library Staff
Beginning in Term 1 the National Library’s Services to Schools are offering a free programme of support for staff new to working in the school library.
The programme includes opportunities to learn online, access to resources for professional learning, and expert advice and support from our team of staff around NZ. To find out more, and get your new library staff off to a great start, visit our Professional Learning and Support website now.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Two-day leadership workshops for Principals and SLTs
Two options in 2024:
One, exclusively for principal; reflect deeply on your personal and professional effectiveness, explore life-changing habits and build skills with your peers.
The other, for Principals and SLTs; explore the habits together, transform your team, and get everyone on the same page, at the same time.
Registrations are open for:
- Auckland - SLTs, Feb
- Wellington - SLTs, May
- Christchurch - SLTs, Aug
- Auckland - principals only, Nov
Contact Rob Clarke now to discuss your requirements - (021 590 572)
Teacher Aide PLD digital skills workshops
We are running a series of workshops for Digital Skills for TAs in south Auckland, BOP, Christchurch and Dunedin.
These fully MoE-funded workshops are open to all TAs who qualify.
Register your interest here.
The countdown is on.
The PLD application deadline is Friday, 23 February.
Apply now for free personalised PLD.
NZPF assures its business partners that, as members, you will contact them to have a conversation if you are purchasing products, services or solutions for your schools that a business partner supplies. Please support our partners as their assistance to NZPF means better membership services to you.
