Russell views his position as principal of Ōtūmoetai College as being an absolute privilege and one that brings with it a deep responsibility.

The privilege is in being able to contribute to make a difference to student learning and to improve learning outcomes.

The responsibility is to ensure that every student receives quality learning opportunities and has an equal opportunity to fulfill their potential as a powerful thinker and learner. 

He believes that quality learning opportunities, student progress, and ultimately improved student outcomes are created within an environment where learning is central to a school’s raison d’être.

As an educational leader, his role is to develop and promote a shared purpose, to lead curriculum and pedagogical change, and to develop a common understanding of learning.

Qualifications: MEdLeadership (Hons), BPA, Dip Tchg

What is my why? Valuing humanity, diversity and cultural connections is important to me.

I love the mindset of: How can I help? Being a contributor to a collaborative and teamwork approach which encompasses future thinking and a growth mindset in all paradigms of education resonates strongly with me. However, also acknowledging that some forms of traditional education remain very effective.

Importantly, volunteering and coaching have allowed me to give back in a wider school context and have provided me with many enriching experiences, connections, and friendships, both here at school and in the wider community. This has been its own reward.

Along my education journey, here at Ōtūmoetai College, I have been fortunate enough to have had a son come through our school and a very supportive family.

Pip has a strong desire to empower students to become independent and lifelong learners. She is committed to unleashing student potential and ensure that all students experience a high quality, balanced programme of learning opportunities. Pip oversees the development of the school’s curriculum, professional learning and growth, by actively fostering staff and student talent in a safe and supportive environment. Pip also stresses the importance of building a strong partnership between school and home.

Qualifications: MEdLeadership (Hons), BEd, Dip Sp Mngmt, Dip Tchg

Jude is a highly experienced educator and is passionate about students developing a love of and curiosity for learning within a safe physical and emotional environment. Jude believes that student wellbeing and positive learning outcomes are inextricably linked. Her focus is on maintaining values and expectations to ensure the learning environment is one in which teachers can deliver the best possible educational outcomes.

Qualifications: BA, Dip Tchg

Dave has a professional background that includes a wide range of experience in New Zealand schools, and joined the Ōtūmoetai staff in 2021.

Strongly aware of the transformational impact learning can have on young people, his broad educational experience, strategic expertise and hands-on knowledge of schools brings a unique range of attributes to his role at Ōtūmoetai College.

Dave believes that learning needs to be challenging and fun and that students need to acquire the skills, competencies and dispositions that will enable them to be confident, well-rounded and successful young people in a rapidly changing world.  

Qualifications: BESc, BEd

The role of Kaitiaki is to act as a carer, guardian, and protector. Bobby’s role is to bring the true intentions of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to life at Ōtūmoetai College, by blending two worlds for both Māori and non-Māori. This will be achieved through innovative support structures and programmes that promote equity for Māori education, through increasing achievement, engagement and hauora.

Bobby is strongly committed to ensuring college students are empowered to make the most of their individual strengths, grow in confidence and explore all that the curriculum offers.

Qualifications: BA, Dip Tchg