Bay of Plenty Region
Bay of Plenty Regional Report
Pip Woodward – pwoodward@otc.school.nz
Kia Ora from the sunny east coast region of the Bay of Plenty. As like other regions we are all busy investigating, collaborating and developing plans for the restart of school on Monday 18th May. We will all have unique experiences of lockdown at level four and the subsequent moving down the levels. It is my hope that we use these experiences and insights to courageously rethink schooling and engage in leadership that is more fit for purpose to lead in these unpredictable and complex times. These experiences have created a catalyst for change, it will all depend on what we do next.
Thinking more specifically about professional growth I want to take this opportunity to genuinely thank on behalf of the region the stunning work of Rob Gilbert, one of the Deputy Principals from Tauranga Boys College. On the 15th November 2019 he bought together Assistant and Deputy Principals from the region to a enjoy a professional learning day that provided a diverse and rich mix of researchers, practitioners and innovators. These included Craig Joubert as the keynote, Sheldon Lendrum from SchoolPoint, Jenny Ferrier-Kerr sharing insights on Leadership Coaching, Mere Berryman talked on Relational and Responsive Inclusions. Rob Gilbert shared some the of the work he was researching, designing and implementing on Innovation, Assessment and Credentialing, concluding with Nigel Tutt, CEO Priority One, outlining the strategic direction for Priority One.
It can be difficult to make the time to gather together, but when we do there is a collective voice that “we must do this more often”. Such opportunities are not only great for our own professional growth as leaders but they also enable us to connect with colleagues across the region and share anecdotes and experiences that enrich us all. Again, a big thank you to you Rob and your team for a stunning day together.
Looking ahead, I think there is a great opportunity for us all to gather again soon and share the learnings and innovations we are exploring and trialing as a result of Covid 19, the chance to authentically collaborate.