The Principals (Aotearoa | New Zealand)

In this episode, we explore the leadership challenges and opportunities that come with implementing curriculum and pedagogical changes in schools. Our guests share their approaches to leading educational transformation, from building staff knowledge and confidence to creating sustainable change that improves student outcomes.

Hosted by Mārama Stewart.

Our guests are:

In this episode, we discover how this free, confidential service helps school leaders navigate challenges from board conflicts to strategic planning, and why reaching out for support - even when you don't need anything - can transform your leadership journey.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Our guests are:

Additional information

Ministry of Education Leadership Advisors - https://workforce.education.govt.nz/principals-and-schools/professional-development-and-support-principals/leadership-advisors

In this episode, we get into the planning and preparation required to successfully launch a new school year. As the end of the summer holidays nears, principals across Aotearoa will be orchestrating one of the most critical periods in the school calendar - ensuring everything is ready for students and staff to return to a well-prepared and welcoming learning environment.

Our guests share practical insights into the multi-layered preparation process, from managing staff recruitment and timetabling through to facility maintenance, technology readiness, and establishing the right culture and tone for the year ahead.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Today’s guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

Ever thought about swapping city school leadership for rural life?

From misconceptions, like assuming rural schools would be "easier", to learning unexpected skills like animal husbandry and septic tank management, our guests talk about the unique rewards of leading schools where community connections run generations deep.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Today’s guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

Additional information:

New Zealand Rural Schools Leadership Association https://www.nzrasla.ac.nz

In this episode, we continue discussing the Professional Growth Cycle for principals, diving deeper into practical implementation, with real examples of how PGC work has helped our guests navigate leadership challenges. We also talk about common pitfalls  principals encounter, and offer advice for people struggling to get started.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Our guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

In this episode, we discuss the Professional Growth Cycle for principals. We’ll talk about how the approach to principal development has evolved from the old ‘banana boxes of evidence’ system to a trust-based model that prioritises meaningful professional learning and honest feedback, and our guests share practical insights on setting impactful goals, building accountability into peer networks, and creating spaces for both professional challenge and emotional support.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Our guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

Additional information

Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand https://teachingcouncil.nz/ 

In this episode, we explore how educational leaders can move beyond tick-box compliance to genuinely embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into their school culture. Our guests share their personal journeys, practical strategies, and honest reflections on what it truly means to create bicultural learning environments where all students thrive. Hosted by Mārama Stewart.

Today’s guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

What are the first 100 days in the principal role really like? From navigating unexpected challenges and building relationships with staff, students, and whānau, to establishing their leadership vision while managing the day-to-day complexities of school operations, our guests share candid insights about what it really takes to transition into principalship. Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

Today’s guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

We continue to talk about attendance in this episode, exploring proven strategies for boosting student attendance through meaningful partnerships. Hear how building strong relationships and addressing root causes—rather than just symptoms—can create lasting change in attendance patterns and student outcomes.

A note that attendance services mentioned in this episode were correct at the time of recording.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

My guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz

Student attendance has become one of the big challenges facing New Zealand schools. With new Attendance Management Plans becoming mandatory from 2026 and expanded attendance services on the horizon, principals are under increasing pressure to find effective solutions to chronic absenteeism. But some schools are beating the odds. In this episode, we sit down with principals who have successfully turned around poor attendance in their schools.

Hosted by Eleisha McNeill.

My guests are:

This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.

You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz