Principal wins national teaching award

AWARDED: Western Heights Primary School principal Brent Griffin with Cognition Education Trust executive officer Anne Rodda (left) and Minister of Education Hekia Parata. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

One of Rotorua's most dedicated principals has been honoured with a national teaching award presented by Minister of Education Hekia Parata.

Western Heights Primary School principal Brent Griffin received the National Excellence in Leadership Award for his ongoing commitment and love for the school and its students.

The award was made at a special ceremony in the Grand Hall, Parliament Buildings, yesterday.

From over 600 nominations per award, 12 Excellence in Teaching Awards and 13 Excellence in Leadership Awards were given to teachers and leaders from across the country.

Mr Griffin is described by his community as a principal who is a model of what he expects of his staff and students, consistently makes connections with school members and the community and shows in all he says and does that he genuinely cares.

National Excellence in Teaching Awards Foundation Chief Executive John Velegrinis said the recipients were teachers and leaders of the highest calibre.

Mr Griffin said he worked with an amazing team and to be recognised for a job he loved doing was a big shock.

"It was a strange thing for me to win this award because I feel like I am only the tip of the iceberg.

"There are so many great teachers and teacher aides who help create this wonderful environment we work in. The award is just as much for them, I was just the man who went and got it. The most exciting part about this award is that it was a community-led nomination. I felt very humbled that people would take time to nominate me and show appreciation for what we do for their children."

Mr Griffin said it was easy going to work when you loved what you were doing.

"I have been principal for 12 years and I love it. I can't think of any place I'd rather be."

Western Heights Primary School will be holding an assembly today to congratulate their principal.