Almost time for principal to say goodbye

Kaitaia Intermediate School principal Sue Arrell will be farewelled at the end of the term.

Staff and students at Kaitaia Intermediate School won't be celebrating the next round of holidays with the usual gusto. When the term ends so will principal Sue Arrell's time at the helm.

Ms Arrell has been at the school since 2006, as deputy principal to now Labour Party deputy leader Kelvin Davis, succeeding him when he launched his political career in 2008.
What the future holds is not immediately clear.

She admits to entertaining the idea of perhaps finding a smaller school, or a bit of relief teaching, but first will come a well-earned break as she waits to see where life takes her as she nears Super GoldCard status.

Her husband Dave reportedly has big plans that involve fishing and a new business venture, but children and grandchildren who live overseas are no doubt expecting more regular visits, while caring for her mum back home in the King Country will be another option.

Ms Arrell will be farewelled at a function at the school on Thursday, September 28, 3.30pm, but admin executive Sheree Blakeborough wasn't waiting until then to pay her tribute.

"She has been a fantastic role model and mentor in my short three years as her PA, and her early resignation came as a real shock to me.

"I thought I had at least another year with her in the office," she said.

"She has a wealth of knowledge, beauty and poise, and the same quirky sense of humour; we have shared many laughs.

"And she has very subtly grown my own professionalism and presentation to a much higher standard, for which I will be forever grateful.

"She will leave a great hole in my small office, but we all wish her all the very best for her next venture, wherever that may lead," she said.

Anyone who would like to be at the farewell is asked to contact Ms Blakeborough on (09) 408-1490 by Friday, September 22 for catering purposes.