Mark Larson (left in photo)...

...has resigned from his role as CEO of The Christian Schools’ Trust (CST) and the Trust has appointed Chris Hannen (right in photo) to serve as the new CEO. The Proprietor, along with the schools and preschools we serve, thank Mark for his faithful and diligent service and welcome Chris to his new role.

Mark plans to continue his work as CEO of the Association of Integrated Schools Aotearoa NZ (https://www.aisnz.org.nz/) and leading the Wellington Christian Education Project (https://wcep.nz/) along with ongoing involvement in other national and local educational initiatives and governance. Mark was Principal of Middleton Grange School from 1999 to 2010, then CEO of The Christian Schools’ Trust from 2010 through to April 2022. For over 20 years we have been privileged to benefit from Mark’s vision for Christian Education, his humility, leadership and wisdom. Mark will be missed and we thank him for his faithful and effective service to Christian Education at Middleton Grange and CST, across Christchurch and throughout the nation.

Chris Hannen brings to the CEO role a deep commitment to Christ and Christian Education along with relevant work experience and skills. He is a Chartered Accountant, working for 15 years in both Christchurch and London in accounting, audit, construction, importing and financial services. Over the past 12 years, Chris has served at World Vision New Zealand and then Laidlaw College in various general management roles. He also studied at Laidlaw College graduating with a Bachelor of Ministries and, latterly, a Master of Theology. Chris is married to Belinda and they have three children, all of whom were/are students at Middleton Grange School. Chris and Belinda are members of Life Church (La Vida) and lead a home group together. Chris was a church trustee for over 20 years and has served in other voluntary governance roles in Christchurch, including tertiary chaplaincy.

The Christian Schools’ Trust was set up in 1963 to establish and maintain Christian schools to provide a first rate general education and instruction in the Christian faith to children of Christian parents. Our vision is to partner with others in growing Christian education to the glory of God. CST schools are Christian, non-denominational and evangelical in character. Our schools and preschools integrate biblical teaching with quality education within a caring community that seeks to be Christ-like and honour God. CST schools take seriously their role to act under a delegated authority of parents, honouring the biblical principle that parents are primarily responsible for the education of their children. CST operates the Cornerstone Christian Early Learning Centres and is Proprietor for four State integrated schools; Aidanfield Christian School, Ashburton Christian School, Middleton Grange School and Rolleston Christian School.