Following the departure of former deputy principal Tina Fillipo to James Cook High School at the end of term 1, the Howick College board and senior leadership team began the process to find a suitable replacement.
After an extensive search that attracted a strong field of applicants, the school’s board has announced the appointment of Michelle Heather into the role of deputy principal.
Heather is currently associate principal at Onehunga High School and, in addition to holding a Masters of Educational Leadership, she brings to the college her vast practical experience in leadership across all aspects of secondary education.
This includes stepping in as acting principal for extended periods of time, leading curriculum development, human resources and student leadership initiatives.
Miles Stratford, Howick College board presiding member, says: “We are fortunate to have a school leader with her experience able to see the opportunities available at Howick College.”
Heather, who is of Ngati Raukawa descent, is a student-focussed leader who works alongside teachers and learners to ensure that the best outcomes possible are achieved.
“Working with talented and resilient young people has been a constant highlight of my career and working with so many incredible people who care about the success of every young person that walks through the school gates and into their classroom is inspirational,” Heather says.
She says she has enjoyed her time at Onehunga High School and credits former principal Deidre Shea with shaping who she is as an educator.
However, she’s excited about joining Howick College as deputy principal and becoming part of a community that is committed to empowering students to reach their full potential.
“The school’s reputation for academic excellence, innovation and student wellbeing is well known. I am eager to work with a new group of talented educators, learning from and working with the current senior leadership team,” Heather says.
She is also excited by the opportunity to learn from experienced Howick College principal Dale Burden.
Burden says Heather will be a valuable addition to the senior leadership team and looks forward to welcoming her to the college at the beginning of term 3.
