The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

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.

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.