I am standing for election for Howick College’s board in the hope that I can make a similar contribution as part of an effective and responsible team.  Since moving to NZ from the UK in 2005, I’ve worked in education and communications.  I ran events nationwide for the Ministry of Education’s “Programmes for Students” initiative.  The “Accelerating Learning in Literacy” programme assisted students to progress through helping teachers to devise and implement targeted strategies.  I delivered 50+ workshops each year to Principals and teachers.  I also worked with CORE Education on ULearn and the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF) conferences, events focussing strongly on innovation, integrating technology into learning and effective BYOD usage.  Prior to this, I spent 6 years at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT).

 

As Events Manager, I organised Open Days, expo stands, promotional and celebratory events. I worked with schools across South Auckland and with Maori and Pasifika communities to ensure that tertiary educational opportunities were presented to all learners, helping them to realise their potential.  I organised graduation ceremonies which reinforced the positive impact of educational achievement across the entire family or whanau.  After moving into the role of External Relations Manager, I was involved in MIT’s relationships with the MoE, regional and local Council and government, political parties, industry associations and regulatory bodies.

 

I currently work with speakers and authors (many of whom focus on education and personal growth) and advise small business owners on marketing strategies, through creating workshops, seminars and events.  I also provide book planning and copywriting assistance to develop effective customer communications.  This work draws upon my experience in running radio stations and business events in the UK and is very fulfilling, helping people to reach out and connect to help others.

 

I believe that every student should have the opportunity to develop and fulfil their educational potential within a happy, supportive and nurturing environment. I work well with other people, have experience and commitment to the role of school trustee and would love to bring this to Howick College as a parent representative in the coming years.