The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

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

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.

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.

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.

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