Beginning Principal Programme
Support for beginning principals | tumuaki in their first two years in the role
All beginning principals and tumuaki are entitled to two years of support through a Ministry-funded programme. This programme of support is a new model commencing from Term 2, 2026.
We, in partnership with Te Uru Amokura | Springboard Trust, are providing this support from 2026-2028.
What does the support involve?
Beginning principals | tumuaki will receive regular support as they commence their new leadership role. During this time, they will be supported through:
Building their knowledge, understanding and practice in their principal’s role
Bringing effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Engaging in learning conversations with a trusted mentor who will listen, advise, coach and challenge as appropriate
Connecting to networks of colleagues and further support within the system and wider sector
Engaging with key leadership resources that reflect leadership within Aotearoa New Zealand
Developing and actioning personal professional learning plans.
The Beginning Principal Programme builds leadership capability as a leader in Aotearoa New Zealand. Integral to the programme is the targeted mentorship from an experienced in-service principal.
We have a team of beginning principals programme facilitators and regional leads. They are all experienced school principals who are committed to ensuring all beginning principals | ngā tumuaki succeed. Our team will work with staff and volunteers from Te Uru Amokura | Springboard Trust. This combination creates rich learning experience for all participants – new principals and tumuaki and their mentors alike.
The Beginning Principal Programme team facilitate all group learning and support mentors. Each beginning principal | tumuaki will be connected to a beginning principal programme facilitator who will ensure their support meets their needs.
The programme team is focused principally in the areas of:
growing the confidence and capabilities of beginning principals to succeed in their roles and sustain their leadership
optimising impact and creating the conditions where learners can thrive, achieve and succeed
exploring and expanding their leadership horizons and contributing more broadly to the education system.
Appointed to your first principals role. What should you do?
We would love to welcome you to the community of beginning principals. Contact us at bpp@evaluate.co.nz so you can begin your onboarding journey.
Download the programme overview to learn more about what the next two years will include.
Want to be a mentor for a beginning principal?
You can find out more about becoming a mentor on this page on the Ministry website.
What if I have questions?
If you have any other questions about the Beginning Principal Programme please don't hesitate to contact us at bpp@evaluate.co.nz .
