School Principal

My email beverleyb@devonport.school.nz

My teaching philosophy

Wellbeing is important to me. I strongly believe that school should be a safe and supportive place to learn, a place where it is okay to take a risk and challenge yourself. After all, learning is about becoming able to do new things and we have to step outside our “comfort zones” to do that. I am also passionate about the need for children to experience a rich curriculum.

My experience/qualifications

I joined the staff of Devonport Primary School in April 2009, fresh from England, where I had been the Headteacher (Principal) of a primary school in my home town of Stockport. I was delighted to be appointed Principal of DPS in 2017. 

Throughout my career I have taught ages 4 to 16, as well as a period of time university lecturing in Primary Education and English. I have enjoyed every age group and love working with children. 

I have an Ed.D (Doctor of Education), M.A. (Masters of Primary Education), and B.Ed (Bachelor of Education)

My special educational interests

• Assessment that promotes learning

• Developing student self-regulation

• English, especially teaching of writing and writing through play

• Teaching maths and finding ways to engage and challenge the children

• Integratated learning projects

• “Hands-on” work through our STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) programme.

• Creative Arts

• Education Outside the Classroom, especially forest learning

About Me

I am married to Ian and we live in Devonport. We have two adult children; Jonathan and Sarah, who both joined us in New Zealand some years ago. I love being a nana to Esmé and Sofía, and am looking forward to welcoming a new grandson soon!

In my spare time I like to walk, swim, chat to my family in England, research my family tree, read, and write.