It is with great pleasure that I can confirm that Peter O'Leary is our new Deputy principal, replacing Peter Jager. Peter O'Leary will start at the beginning of Term Two.

Peter is a highly capable and experienced teacher, middle leader and senior leader. He has previously been Deputy Principal at Trident High School (Whakatane), Principal at Opunake High School (Taranaki) and most recently Deputy Principal at Melville High School in Hamilton which as been amalgamated with Melville Intermediate to re-open as Mangakōtukutuku College.

Peter has a Masters degree in Educational leadership which has helped inform his leadership practice over many years.

Peter was attracted to the position as he had heard lots of very positive comments about the changes that happened in the 12 months and the direction that Te Aroha College is heading in. In accepting the position Peter commented that “I’m stoked and excited to be part of the Te Aroha team”.

Peter has previously taught Science and Senior Biology and has strengths in developing effective pastoral care systems, the analysis of student data to inform teaching practice and school wide decisions and building really positive relationships with students, staff and communities.

Peter is also a highly regarded international Football referee who has attended two Football World Cups and the 2012 Olympic games. He has been influential nationally and internationally, in the development of Football referees for nearly two decades.

We are excited to have Peter join the team at Te Aroha College and the skills and experience he will bring to support or students, staff and community.