The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

In this episode, we explore the distinction between culturally responsive and culturally sustaining leadership in schools. Our guests discuss what it means to honour diversity within kura and how to move beyond surface-level cultural celebrations to embed practices that truly sustain students' cultural identities.

 

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

 

Our guests are:

Sose Annandale, acting principal at Rewarewa School

Mere Berryman, professor at the University of Waikato

Richard Crawford, tumuaki of Fairfield College in Hamilton

 

Additional information

Tapasā: Cultural Competencies Framework for Teachers of Pacific Learners

Rongohia te Hau - student and whānau voice tool

In this episode, we continue our conversation about rural school innovation, focusing on how technology connects students and staff to the wider world. Our guests discuss virtual learning networks, digital tools for extending talented students, and the importance of real-world experiences alongside virtual ones. We talk about how rural school clusters share resources and professional development, and the unique freedoms that allow rural principals to turn ideas into action quickly.

 

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

VLN - Virtual Learning Network: www.vln.school.nz 

Mind Plus: www.mindplus.co.nz

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

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.

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.