On Wednesday, 28 September 2022, our Principal, Phil Holstein, tendered his resignation to the Board to take effect at the end of the 2022 school year.
It is with sadness that the Board has today reluctantly accepted Phil’s resignation.
In his resignation, Phil mentions that he has been a principal for 17 years – eight of those with Waimairi-iri Burnside High School. He stated that he has felt privileged to have served as Principal here; thoroughly enjoyed his time working alongside the Board, staff, students and the wider school community; and that he will always hold the school dear to him. It is our understanding that Phil’s intention is to spend more time with his family.
Phil has added a great deal to the history of the school and to its proud reputation – locally, nationally and internationally. He feels the timing of his resignation is right for him and the school, as a new Board takes office and a new Strategic Plan is launched with the school in a sound, secure and positive position. While we will be sad to see him go, the Board strongly agrees that the school is well poised as a result of Phil's strong leadership.
Phil acknowledges and thanks Andrea Griffin, Associate Principal, and the Senior Leadership Team for their professionalism, support, specialist skills, commitment and friendship; all teaching and non-teaching staff for their dedicated support; parents, whānau, caregivers and students; and Charles Breurkes (outgoing Board Presiding Member), together with current and former Board members for their guidance and support.
Phil has been an exceptional and outstanding leader. On behalf of the whole Waimairi-iri Burnside High School community, the Board acknowledges and thanks Phil – with upmost respect and gratitude – for his leadership; for his unwavering commitment and service to the school; and for the significant gains and achievements the school has made under his leadership.
Thank you Phil. Our best wishes are with you and your family.
Toitū te marae a Tane-Mahuta, toitū te marae a Tangaroa, toitū te tangata
(If the land is well and the sea is well, the people will thrive)
Nāku noa
Nā Chris Dann
Presiding Member
Waimairi-iri Burnside High School Board