Tai Tapu School has a proud legacy of nurturing young minds since 1876, blending the strengths of a rural environment with contemporary educational approaches. Together, we will continue this legacy, fostering a place where all tamariki are supported to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

With over 20 years of experience in education, including leadership roles and a Master’s degree in Education, I am driven by a passion for cultivating a positive, inclusive, and achievement-oriented environment for all learners. My commitment as an educator is to empower every child to become a confident, connected, actively involved lifelong learner. Placing student well-being, engagement, and achievement at the heart of all we do, I strive to honour diversity and respect each child’s unique potential.

At Tai Tapu, we embrace the values of Manaaki (Respect), Māia (Courage), Tipu (Growth), and Hononga (Connection). These values resonate with me deeply, as they align with my philosophy of collaborative and growth-oriented leadership. As part of our commitment, we strive to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, fostering equitable opportunities, partnership, and participation for all. Together with our dedicated teachers and staff, I look forward to inspiring our learners to embody these values and to 'make a difference' in themselves, others, and the environment.

Beyond academics, we are proud of our commitment to the arts, sports, and cultural activities. Our choirs, bands, sports teams, and cultural groups offer every child the chance to discover and nurture their talents. Events like our annual Pet Show—a cherished tradition—celebrate our unique community spirit and provide opportunities for tamariki to share their creativity.

As a family person, my husband and I, along with our two daughters, are passionate about sports and community involvement. We love being part of activities that bring people together, and I look forward to seeing you on the sidelines, in classrooms, and at school events. Whānau and community engagement are invaluable to our school’s success, and I am excited to build strong connections with each of you.

Looking ahead, my goal is to ensure that every child feels valued and equipped to achieve their best, supported by an environment that promotes well-being, growth, and resilience. Together, let’s continue Tai Tapu’s proud tradition of excellence while embracing new opportunities for learning and connection. I am thrilled to join you on this journey, and I can’t wait to meet you all.

Ngā mihi nui,
Amanda Clarkson