How long have you been an educator, and where did you train?
I trained at St Andrew’s Catholic Teacher Training College in Scotland, graduating in 1993 with a B.Ed (Hons) from the University of Glasgow. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving in five Catholic schools across the Diocese of Auckland. It’s been a deeply rewarding journey, shaping communities where faith and learning come together to grow confident, compassionate and curious young minds.
When did you become principal of St Mark’s School?
I’ve been a principal for 12 years, joining St Mark’s at the start of 2020, just weeks before our first Covid lockdown. It was a memorable beginning and immediately revealed the strength, unity, and resilience at the heart of this community.
What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal?
The greatest joy as an educational leader is cultivating a faith-filled, inclusive culture where every learner is truly known, valued and given equitable opportunities to thrive. Seeing students, staff and families grow in confidence is a daily blessing. No two days are ever alike, and I continue to believe that education is one of the most hopeful and life-giving professions there is.
What’s special about St Mark’s School?
Though it may sound cliché, it’s the people who make St Mark’s truly special. As a non-zoned school, families choose us from near and far – and many return generation after generation. That loyalty reflects the deep sense of belonging and whānau that’s nurtured here every day, making St Mark’s feel like one big family. We value the cultural richness of our ethnically diverse community and the inclusivity and respect extended to one another. Our students are curious, courageous, friendly and resilient – a true gift of joy and hope to the world. Our long-serving, dedicated staff go above and beyond to ensure every learner, and every family is known, valued and celebrated. We educate both hearts and minds, shaping learners in the spirit of the Gospel and guiding them to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Alongside strong academic outcomes, we provide rich opportunities for all learners to explore their God-given talents. Supported by our parish whānau, committed board, enthusiastic PTFA and engaged families, St Mark’s is a joyful, faith-filled learning community.
Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector?
I’d love to see education in Aotearoa far less politicised. Schools cannot – and should not – be expected to solve every social problem. Their core mission is to deliver excellent teaching and learning for every child. Achieving this requires world-class education, health and social-welfare systems working together so that a child’s postcode, background or circumstance never limits their opportunity. We need first-class teacher training programmes to attract school leavers into the profession and strong incentives to retain quality educators – far too many are burnt out and demoralised in today’s relentless climate of change. Fundamentally, our tamariki should never be ‘guinea pigs’ for fleeting trends, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi must remain central, honouring Aotearoa’s unique bicultural heritage.
How is the relationship between St Mark’s School and its immediate local community?
St Mark’s is a hidden gem in our local community. It’s always surprising how many locals (including parishioners!) don’t realise the school is tucked behind the Catholic Church on Pakuranga Road, literally sandwiched between BP and KFC! We do however enjoy strong ties with our parish, our neighbours at Pakuranga Park Retirement Village, and local and regional school networks, including Howick Pakuranga Principals Association and the east Auckland Catholic schools. Our families are simply the best, and we work collectively and creatively to engage external agencies, community groups, sports clubs and local services. I’m pretty sure we keep the nearby cafes and eateries in business with our before and after-school coffee runs and lunch takeouts!
