Surrounded by boxes to unpack and furniture to find a place for, Stratford Primary's new principal David Cripps says he and his family have already found a foothold in the town that is to be their new home, thanks to the embracing hospitality of the local community.
I have really appreciated the close-knit community support that sets Stratford apart from large cities. When we moved in our neighbours popped over with fresh baking; on our first night in our new house, another family organised dinner for us.
The welcome that we are receiving is outstanding. As my predecessor Kelvin Squire commented in the Stratford Press, he and his wife caught the Stratty bug. I'm beginning to see what he means.
David, 46, and his wife Suzanne and their two teenage children, Devon and Amber, moved to Stratford from Auckland during the school holiday.
David started his career in Auckland, where he had taught at various schools including Elm Park Primary and Cockle Bay Primary School. He was later appointed resource teacher of learning and behaviour in East and South Auckland. His first principal's position was at a small rural school west of Taihape, followed by a position in Wanganui. The family then moved to the United Arab Emirates, where David was a cluster manager for the Abu Dhabi Education Council before coming back to New Zealand and applying for the position at Stratford Primary.
While in the Middle East he worked with "some outstanding international leaders", which he says has challenged his "previously limited perceptions of educational leadership styles".
I believe that the climate of a school is directly impacted by the principal's interactions and leadership. One of my roles as principal at SPS will be to assist, support and challenge teachers to provide the best educational opportunities for our students."
His doctoral study is on which leadership styles best enhance teachers' performance and make them feel valued in their work.
Many people over the ages have said that teaching is a vocation rather than a job. I think there is a lot of truth to this. I love teaching and leading teachers because I believe we have the most privileged and exciting career possible."
He adds that for him teaching children is dynamic and challenging and incredibly rewarding.
I love being able to see a child's satisfaction from putting newly learned skills into practice. When they experience success, I do also. I believe that every child can reach their personal best when nurtured and supported in an environment that acknowledges their heritage, prior learning and uniqueness.
I bring to my position as principal of Stratford Primary School enthusiasm, experience and a deep sense of gratitude for the excellent work that has gone on before me.
David says he and his family are looking forward to integrating into the community and quips that, as he loves fishing, kayaking and hunting, he is hoping a friendly local will show him some of the great spots. Devon will be attending New Plymouth Boys' High School and Amber will continue at Wanganui High School, where she is in her final year.