The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

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.

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.