New principal for school

Thursday, 10 December 2009

By REBECCA GARDINER

• Howick and Pakuranga Times

AT THE HELM: Iva Ropati is taking over as principal of Howick College from Bill Dimery.

Iva Ropati is taking over from Bill Dimery, who announced his retirement in October.The former New Zealand and Samoan international rugby league representative has more than 18 years’ experience in education and holds a master of arts, with honours, in English.Mr Ropati was principal of One Tree Hill College, formerly Penrose High School, for seven years.Wayne Johnson, chairman of the board of trustees at Howick College, says Mr Ropati stood out in a field of high-quality candidates.

Bill Dimery.

Mr Ropati’s substantial leadership experience was recognised with a Sir Peter Blake Emerging Leaders Award in June. One Tree Hill College board of trustees chairman Garth Biggs says the school’s past three Education Review Office reports highlight Mr Ropati’s role in bringing about “remarkable progress” at the college. This, Mr Biggs says, has been coupled with a growing college roll, much-improved NCEA results, and notable sporting and cultural achievements.“The board was delighted Mr Ropati had the opportunity to continue his professional growth in an environment that would offer him new challenges and new learnings,” he says. “He will be missed but we wish him well.”Mr Ropati will take up his new position at Howick College on January 18.

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New principal for school