With two new members joining the Board now is a good time to introduce you to the full Board. Every state and state-integrated school or kura in New Zealand has a board that governs it. The board's role is to oversee the governance of its school or kura and to ensure that everything that needs to be done gets done as well as possible in the best interests of its students.

The board is the employer of all staff, including the principal, and sets the overall strategic direction for the school or kura. The principal is the board's 'chief executive' and manages the day to day operations of the school or kura in line with the board's direction and policies.

At Milford School our board consists of the principal, a staff-elected representative and five members of the community. Each year the Board appoints a presiding member (board chair) - the presiding member can never be the principal or staff representative.

Our Board members introduce themselves below:

Alexandra Sharman: Kia Ora! I’m Alex, a parent of two boys at Milford School, a lawyer with over 20 years of experience and a passionate advocate for getting kids curious and engaged. We have a fantastic school, and I’m looking forward to joining the Board to help empower our kids for their future.

Camille Collins: Kia Ora, my name is Camille Collins. I have two children who attend Milford School, a daughter in year six and a son in year one.Before my current working role, I taught at a Primary school level for eight years. I am passionate about people, whanau, and community and advocate for children who may struggle academically. I'm Dyslexic and know first-hand the importance of creating a supportive, positive and inclusive learning environment for our tamariki.

Francis Reid: I'm Francis and I'm the current presiding member (Chair) of the Milford School Board. I have a son in Year 2 and three older children at TNIS, Westlake Boys and Westlake Girls. I have a passion for education and the opportunities that education can provide. I grew up on the North Shore and attended Westlake Boys where I was Head Boy in 1998. In 1999 I won a scholarship to the University of Cambridge in England where I went on to complete a PhD degree. Professionally I work in a senior corporate role and have extensive experience on business boards and governance bodies. I want kids at Milford School to be provided with the best possible start in education by making sure the school is well run with a clear strategic vision.

Lucy Naylor: Since the beginning of 2023, I have been the proud Principal of Milford School. I am committed to driving positive change to create an inspiring and supportive learning environment to lead Milford School to the next level of excellence, where every student can reach their full potential and flourish academically, emotionally, and socially.

Nelson Wahanui: I am delighted to join the board and contribute to the smooth running of Milford school where my son is in his fourth year. With a background in health programme management and a strong commitment as both a parent and an active community member, I am dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment for all our students. Together, let's collaborate to ensure our school continues to excel in providing the best education possible.

Roz Cowen:It’s been a privilege to be a board member since the start of 2022 and a Milford parent since 2017. I’ve always enjoyed being involved in our school community (FOMS, parent helping, hockey coaching). I have a son in year 5 and a daughter at TNIS. Professionally, I have a master’s degree in planning and have worked for engineering and environmental consultancies and in the public sector in NZ, Canada and the UK since 2000. I’ve also worked as a registered financial adviser. My experience includes regulatory assessment, project management, HR, community engagement and strategic planning and policy. I’m passionate about ensuring Milford School has a positive learning environment enabling our learners’ academic progress and achievement, supported by quality resources, infrastructure and teaching staff.

Scott Polkinghorne: My name is Scott Polkinghorne. I joined the teaching profession 13 years ago starting as a Year 7 teacher at Takapuna Normal Intermediate School. Prior to starting at Milford School in 2018, I taught at the Canadian International School (CIS) in Singapore for four years. My first year at CIS was as a Year 7 teacher before taking up the role of Head of Department for PE. I am passionate about Education Outside of the Classroom (EOTC) and have been involved in initiatives to raise boys' interest and achievement in Writing. Personally, I enjoy playing mixed Netball, Touch Rugby, Off-road adventures and camping and spending time with my wife and two Golden Retrievers.

 For more information about boards in New Zealand primary schools click here