9 - 10 June 2025 | Oaks Wellington, Wellington

11 - 12 June 2025 | JW Marriott, Auckland

Legal & Governance Essentials For School Leaders Auckland

Why attend?

Examining the school leader’s role in 2025, this initiative aims to keep educational leaders well-informed about essential legal and regulatory matters, such as employment regulations, privacy protocols, the well-being of students and staff, communication strategies, technological advancements, and more. It seeks to ensure that leaders in primary, intermediate, and secondary schools stay updated on vital changes in education legislation and have the opportunity to engage with experts.

Featuring the latest updates on

Legal responsibilities of the school Principal
Health and Safety – and employment law updates
Reasonable use of physical restraint
Looking at your staff wellbeing
Managing disagreements with whanau
Managing privacy and ethic – CCCTV
Addressing Te Tiriti
Rethinking Discipline in Schools and adopting technology

Venue - Auckland

JW Marriott, Auckland
22-26 Albert Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010

Venue - Wellington

Oaks Wellington Hotel
89 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington 6011

Agenda

8:30	Registration and Coffee
9:00	Welcoming remarks from the Chair Wikus Swanepoel, Principal, Maidstone Intermediate School
9:10	Empowering School leaders through understanding the legal and policy framework for effective governance Reviewing recent policy changes, compliance requirements, and their impact on school operations Exploring best practices for decision-making, accountability, and transparency in school leadership Analysing real-world governance challenges and learning from past legal cases in education Mai Chen, Barrister, Chen Palmer Public and Employment law Specialists
9:50	From principles to practice: A deep dive into the teacher’s code of conduct Exploring Key Principles – Reviewing professionalism, integrity, respect, and their impact on school culture Understanding the processes for reporting and addressing breaches of the Code Discussing the strategies for embedding the Code into daily school operations Highlighting the importance of engaging staff in ongoing professional development and reflection Collaborating on strategies to reinforce adherence and enhance professional conduct Kevin Knight, Chief Executive, New Zealand Graduate School of Education
10:20	Morning break
10:50	Employment law in schools: Key legal considerations for hiring, retention, and workplace rights Understanding Employment law in hiring Legal Framework: Key legislation & compliance requirements Equal employment opportunity & anti-discrimination laws Understanding staff retention & workplace rights Understanding employment agreements & workplace policies Overview of workplace health & safety laws in schools Discussing fair pay, leave entitlements, and flexible work arrangements Fiona McMillan, Partner, Lane Neave
11:30	Ensuring quality teaching: Legal frameworks and best practices for addressing performance challenges Understanding the legal framework Identifying underperformance Legal considerations for performance management and improvement plans Common challenges and risks Rebecca Laney, Associate, Anderson Lloyd
12:20	Privacy challenges in schools: Addressing risks and ensuring compliance Understanding the legal requirements under the Privacy Act 2020 Establishing a proactive approach to fostering a culture of privacy awareness within schools Identifying common privacy challenges faced by schools in managing data Exploring practical strategies to mitigate risks and ensure legal compliance Fi McMillan, Special Counsel, Anderson Lloyd
12:50	Lunch
13:50	Safeguarding in practice: Implementing child protection laws in NZ schools Understanding New Zealand’s child protection laws and how they apply in schools Learning best practices for implementing safeguarding policies effectively Developing strategies for identifying, responding to, and reporting child protection concerns Building a child-safe school culture that prioritises student well-being Tina Budd, Founder, See the Signs
14:20	Social media boundaries: Addressing student misconduct within and beyond the school grounds Understanding the blurred lines between in-school and out-of-school social media behaviour Identifying common issues and reviewing real-world cases where student social media misconduct outside of school impacted the school environment Examining the extent of school authority over student behaviour outside school hours Understanding duty of care when social media harm occurs outside school but affects student well-being Arran Hunt, Partner, McVeagh Fleming
14:50	Supporting students with special needs: Strategies, resources, and funding in New Zealand schools Understanding the legal and policy framework for supporting students with needs in New Zealand Implementing effective strategies for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment Explore available funding sources, where to apply, and how to access resources for special education Identifying challenges in integrating special needs education in schools and exploring effective strategies for overcoming them Brooke Trenwith, Director, Potential to Performance
15:30	Afternoon Break
15:50	Online harm in schools: Policies, prevention, and proactive action Understanding the types of online harm affecting students and its impact on their well-being Discussing how to develop and implement robust policies to address online harm Exploring prevention strategies to create a safe digital environment in schools Identifying proactive actions to respond effectively to incidents of online harm Equipping teachers to recognize signs of online harm and how to respond effectively Sean Lyons , Chief Online Safety Officer, Net Safe
16:20	Panel Discussion: Shaping a thriving school culture: The Principals’ role in staff and student well-being Understanding the principal’s role in shaping a positive school culture Learning effective strategies to support staff and student well-being Discussing leadership habits that foster a thriving school environment Practical tools and strategies to improve engagement, morale, and inclusivity Bruce Hart, Governance Advisor,NZ School Boards Association Shirley Porteous, Principal, New Lands Primary School
17:00	Summary remarks from the Chair & Networking Drinks

8:50	Registration and Coffee
9:00	Welcoming remarks from the Chair Wikus Swanepoel, Principal, Maidstone Intermediate School
9:10	Navigating high-stakes disputes: Legal guide to resolving school board conflicts Understanding the legal frameworks governing school board-principal relationships Discussing strategies to address and resolve conflicts while maintaining compliance with legal obligations Exploring best practices for protecting the school’s interests and ensuring fair outcomes Developing proactive approaches to minimize legal risks in principal-board interactions Cleave Hay, Statutory Manager
9:40	When complaints escalate: Legal strategies for school leaders Understanding the legal frameworks and obligations surrounding escalated complaints Identifying the types of complaints that may lead to legal challenges (e.g., discrimination, health and safety, staff grievances) Learning strategies to manage complaints that escalate to legal disputes Developing proactive measures to prevent and handle complaints effectively while protecting the school’s integrity Caro Rieger, Director, Black Door Law
10:20	Morning break
10:50	Ensuring safety inside schools and during educational trips: Effective health & safety strategies Understanding the importance of creating a culture of safety in schools and during educational trips Learn strategies for implementing effective health and safety measures Exploring best practices for planning and managing safety during educational trips Developing proactive approaches to risk assessment and emergency preparednes Discussing case studies and learning from real-world incidents Alyn Higgins, Barrister & Solicitor, Ath Consulting
11:10	Workshop: Leadership in action – practical skills for school leaders Exploring the evolving role of school leadership in education Learning about different leadership styles and their impact on school culture Discussing the importance of developing self-awareness in leadership approaches Case Study Exercise: Analysing a real-world leadership challenge and developing a response strategy Understanding common conflict scenarios in school leadership Role-Playing Activity: Practicing strategies for handling difficult conversations with staff, parents, or board members Understanding risk management and emergency preparedness in schools Scenario-Based Group Exercise: Responding to a school-wide crisis (e.g., student safety issue, media scrutiny, staff misconduct) Discussing techniques for leading and managing change in schools Cherie Chu-Fuluifaga, Associate Professor- School of Education, Victoria University of Wellington
11:50	Adapting to curriculum change: Strategies for navigating shifts in New Zealand education Understanding the key curriculum changes in New Zealand education and their implications for schools Exploring strategies for successfully implementing curriculum shifts while supporting teachers and students Developing a structured approach to integrating new curriculum elements into teaching and learning Identifying challenges in curriculum adaptation and discovering proactive solutions to address them Michael Johnston, Senior Fellow, NZ Initiative
12:30	Lunch Break
13:30	Legal considerations when engaging with the media: What school leaders must know Recognising the rights and responsibilities of school leaders in media interactions Understanding defamation, privacy laws, and the legal risks of public statements Identifying when legal counsel should be involved in media responses Discussing how to handle sensitive issues, including student incidents, employment matters, and public complaints Understanding privacy rights for students, staff, and parents in media interactions Mary Lambie, Director, Socius Media
14:00	Bullying in schools: Legal responsibilities and governance strategies for school leaders Understanding bullying and recognising its impact on students, staff, and the school community Reviewing legal obligations, governance policies, and duty of care to ensure compliance with anti-bullying legislation Managing student-to-student bullying and handling complaints through proper investigation and documentation Addressing employee-to-employee and staff-to-student bullying Discussing strategies strengthening school governance Kirsty Wallace, Special Counsel, Duncan Cotterill
14:30	From discipline to resolution: Ensuring fair and legal processes for student expulsions Understanding the legal framework and procedural requirements for student expulsions in New Zealand Understanding how to balance disciplinary measures with fairness and student rights Exploring best practices for handling severe student misconduct while following legal and ethical guidelines Developing strategies for minimizing expulsions through early intervention and restorative practices Grant Fletcher, Barrister, Plymouth Chambers
14:50	Summary remarks from the Chair & end of conference

8:30	Registration and Coffee
9:00	Welcoming remarks from the Chair Steve Dunsmore, Principal, Horsham Downs School
9:10	Empowering School leaders through understanding the legal and policy framework for effective governance Reviewing recent policy changes, compliance requirements, and their impact on school operations Exploring best practices for decision-making, accountability, and transparency in school leadership Analysing real-world governance challenges and learning from past legal cases in education Mai Chen, Barrister, Chen Palmer Public and Employment law Specialists
9:50	From principles to practice: A deep dive into the teacher’s code of conduct Exploring Key Principles – Reviewing professionalism, integrity, respect, and their impact on school culture Understanding the processes for reporting and addressing breaches of the Code Discussing the strategies for embedding the Code into daily school operations Highlighting the importance of engaging staff in ongoing professional development and reflection Collaborating on strategies to reinforce adherence and enhance professional conduct Kevin Knight, Chief Executive, New Zealand Graduate School of Education
10:20	Morning break
10:50	Employment law in schools: Key legal considerations for hiring, retention, and workplace rights Understanding Employment law in hiring Legal Framework: Key legislation & compliance requirements Equal employment opportunity & anti-discrimination laws Understanding staff retention & workplace rights Understanding employment agreements & workplace policies Overview of workplace health & safety laws in schools Discussing fair pay, leave entitlements, and flexible work arrangements Gretchen Stone, Partner, Harrison Stone
11:30	Safeguarding in practice: Implementing child protection laws in NZ schools Understanding New Zealand’s child protection laws and how they apply in schools Learning best practices for implementing safeguarding policies effectively Developing strategies for identifying, responding to, and reporting child protection concerns Building a child-safe school culture that prioritises student well-being Jane Searle, Chief Executive, Child Matters
12:00	Privacy challenges in schools: Addressing risks and ensuring compliance Understanding the legal requirements under the Privacy Act 2020 Establishing a proactive approach to fostering a culture of privacy awareness within schools Identifying common privacy challenges faced by schools in managing data Exploring practical strategies to mitigate risks and ensure legal compliance Fi McMillan, Special Counsel, Anderson Lloyd
12:30	Lunch
13:30	Ensuring quality teaching: Legal frameworks and best practices for addressing performance challenges Understanding the legal framework Identifying underperformance Legal considerations for performance management and improvement plans Common challenges and risks Rebecca Laney, Associate, Anderson Lloyd
14:20	Social media boundaries: Addressing student misconduct within and beyond the school grounds Understanding the blurred lines between in-school and out-of-school social media behaviour Identifying common issues and reviewing real-world cases where student social media misconduct outside of school impacted the school environment Examining the extent of school authority over student behaviour outside school hours Understanding duty of care when social media harm occurs outside school but affects student well-being Arran Hunt, Partner, McVeagh Fleming
14:50	Supporting students with special needs: Strategies, resources, and funding in New Zealand schools Understanding the legal and policy framework for supporting students with needs in New Zealand Implementing effective strategies for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment Explore available funding sources, where to apply, and how to access resources for special education Identifying challenges in integrating special needs education in schools and exploring effective strategies for overcoming them Brooke Trenwith, Director, Potential to Performance
15:30	Afternoon Break
15:50	Online harm in schools: Policies, prevention, and proactive action Understanding the types of online harm affecting students and its impact on their well-being Discussing how to develop and implement robust policies to address online harm Exploring prevention strategies to create a safe digital environment in schools Identifying proactive actions to respond effectively to incidents of online harm Equipping teachers to recognize signs of online harm and how to respond effectively Sean Lyons , Chief Online Safety Officer, Net Safe
16:20	Panel Discussion: Shaping a thriving school culture: The Principals’ role in staff and student well-being Understanding the principal’s role in shaping a positive school culture Learning effective strategies to support staff and student well-being Discussing leadership habits that foster a thriving school environment Practical tools and strategies to improve engagement, morale, and inclusivity Yolanda Choromanski, Principal,Parakai School Steve Dunsmore, Principal, Horsham Downs School Patrick Ikiua, Director Professional Practice, New Zealand School Boards Association Tina-Maree Thatcher, Director & Consultant, Cambridge Educational Consulting Simon Craggs, Tumuaki/Principal, Papakura High School
17:00	Summary remarks from the Chair & Networking Drinks

8:50	Registration and Coffee
9:00	Welcoming remarks from the Chair Steve Dunsmore, Principal, Horsham Downs School
9:10	Navigating high-stakes disputes: Legal guide to resolving school board conflicts Understanding the legal frameworks governing school board-principal relationships Discussing strategies to address and resolve conflicts while maintaining compliance with legal obligations Exploring best practices for protecting the school’s interests and ensuring fair outcomes Developing proactive approaches to minimize legal risks in principal-board interactions Cleave Hay, Statutory Manager
9:40	When complaints escalate: Legal strategies for school leaders Understanding the legal frameworks and obligations surrounding escalated complaints Identifying the types of complaints that may lead to legal challenges (e.g., discrimination, health and safety, staff grievances) Learning strategies to manage complaints that escalate to legal disputes Developing proactive measures to prevent and handle complaints effectively while protecting the school’s integrity Dew James -Powys, Senior Solicitor, Heaney & Partners Joy Walpole Williams, Associate, Heaney & Partners
10:20	Morning break
10:50	Bullying in schools: Legal responsibilities and governance strategies for school leaders Understanding bullying and recognising its impact on students, staff, and the school community Reviewing legal obligations, governance policies, and duty of care to ensure compliance with anti-bullying legislation Managing student-to-student bullying and handling complaints through proper investigation and documentation Addressing employee-to-employee and staff-to-student bullying Discussing strategies strengthening school governance Rachel Judge, Partner, Simpson Grierson
11:10	Workshop: Leadership in action – practical skills for school leaders Exploring the evolving role of school leadership in education Learning about different leadership styles and their impact on school culture Discussing the importance of developing self-awareness in leadership approaches Case Study Exercise: Analysing a real-world leadership challenge and developing a response strategy Understanding common conflict scenarios in school leadership Role-Playing Activity: Practicing strategies for handling difficult conversations with staff, parents, or board members Understanding risk management and emergency preparedness in schools Scenario-Based Group Exercise: Responding to a school-wide crisis (e.g., student safety issue, media scrutiny, staff misconduct) Discussing techniques for leading and managing change in schools Cherie Chu-Fuluifaga, Associate Professor- School of Education, Victoria University of Wellington
11:50	Adapting to curriculum change: Strategies for navigating shifts in New Zealand education Understanding the key curriculum changes in New Zealand education and their implications for schools Exploring strategies for successfully implementing curriculum shifts while supporting teachers and students Developing a structured approach to integrating new curriculum elements into teaching and learning Identifying challenges in curriculum adaptation and discovering proactive solutions to address them Michael Johnston, Senior Fellow, NZ Initiative
12:30	Lunch Break
13:30	Legal considerations when engaging with the media: What school leaders must know Recognising the rights and responsibilities of school leaders in media interactions Understanding defamation, privacy laws, and the legal risks of public statements Identifying when legal counsel should be involved in media responses Discussing how to handle sensitive issues, including student incidents, employment matters, and public complaints Understanding privacy rights for students, staff, and parents in media interactions Mary Lambie, Director, Socius Media
14:00	Ensuring safety inside schools and during educational trips: Effective health & safety strategies Understanding the importance of creating a culture of safety in schools and during educational trips Learn strategies for implementing effective health and safety measures Exploring best practices for planning and managing safety during educational trips Developing proactive approaches to risk assessment and emergency preparedness Discussing case studies and learning from real-world incidents Alyn Higgins, Barrister & Solicitor, Ath Consulting
14:30	From discipline to resolution: Ensuring fair and legal processes for student expulsions Understanding the legal framework and procedural requirements for student expulsions in New Zealand Understanding how to balance disciplinary measures with fairness and student rights Exploring best practices for handling severe student misconduct while following legal and ethical guidelines Developing strategies for minimizing expulsions through early intervention and restorative practices Grant Fletcher, Barrister, Plymouth Chambers
15:00	Summary remarks from the Chair & end of conference
	SEPARATELY BOOKABLE WORKSHOP - SEE TAB FOR DETAILS & TO BOOK
15:15	MANAGING COMPLAINTS & ESCALATIONS IN SCHOOLS: A step-by-step legal and governance guide for NZ school leaders – When to act and when to seek legal expertise Understanding the legal and governance framework in NZ education Importance of effective complaint management in schools Understanding types of complaints in schools (student, parent, staff, community) Differentiating between minor concerns and serious complaints The role of policies and procedures in managing complaints Key legal obligations and responsibilities of school leaders Understanding step by step complaint resolution framework – Initial Response & Acknowledgment – Investigation & Documentation – Resolution & Decision-Making Managing high risk situations and identifying red flags for escalation Handling aggressive or persistent complainants Managing social media complaints and public scrutiny Recognising legal risks and governance issues and understanding when to seek legal advice Understanding the role of the school board and external legal advisors FACILITATED BY: Fi McMillan, Special Counsel, Anderson Lloyd
18:00	End of Workshop

Speakers - Wellington

Mai Chen

Barrister

Chen Palmer Public and Employment law Specialists

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Mai Chen (LLB(Hons), LLM, HonLLD) is one of New Zealand’s top constitutional and administrative law experts. She founded NZ’s first public law firm, Chen Palmer, with Sir Geoffrey Palmer KC. She has held academic roles at the University of Auckland and Victoria University and chaired several diversity-focused organisations. A published author, former BNZ Director, and Securities Commission member, she was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2023. Born in Taiwan, Mai arrived in NZ speaking only two English words.

Grant Fletcher

Barrister

Plymouth Chambers

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Kirsty Wallace

Special Counsel

Duncan Cotterill

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Mary Lambie

Director

Socius Media

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Alyn Higgins

Barrister & Solicitor

Ath Consulting

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Caro Rieger

Director

Black Door Law

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Caro is a highly experienced employment law expert, trusted by boards and executives across both private and public sectors. She regularly advises school boards, early childhood providers, and organisations facing professional disciplinary matters, bringing a deep understanding of the unique challenges and regulatory frameworks they operate within. Caro is frequently appointed as an independent investigator for complex workplace issues, including bullying, sexual harassment, and cultural reviews, with her reports shaping both employment decisions and broader organisational change. Caro is regularly invited to present on employment law, governance, and workplace culture.

Shirley Porteous

Principal

Newlands Primary School

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I am a passionate, committed educator who has had the privilege of leading two kura in Wellington. Leading others and growing effective teams is when I feel ‘in my element’. I also relish the opportunity we are given as kaiako to make a real difference to the lives of tamariki. As tumuaki at Newlands Primary School, I am lucky to contribute to the community in which I live, ensuring our kura plays a pivotal role in actively connecting with whānau and the wider community.

Arran Hunt

Partner

McVeagh Fleming

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Arran is a recognised expert in the area of social media law, primarily focusing on online harm legislation. His expertise has been acknowledged in various contexts, including his presentation to the Justice Select Committee, and his work has even been referenced in parliament and by the Law Commission. He combines a background with science and technology with his legal experience to look at legal issues from a perspective that few others can. Arran Hunt is also a highly experienced Immigration Lawyer with a stellar reputation in the market. He is widely recognised for his expertise in demystifying the immigration process and providing valuable advice and guidance on navigating the complexities of the immigration system.

Fiona McMillan, Partner, Lane Neave

Partner

Lane Neave

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Kevin Knight

Chief Executive

New Zealand Graduate School of Education

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Kevin, founder of NZGSE, is a seasoned teacher educator and former secondary school principal. With a background in educational psychology, he has lectured at colleges and developed the 8People model of teacher practice. Renowned across New Zealand and Australia for his work in behaviour management, mentoring, and appraisal, he also served on the former NZ Teachers Council. In 2020, Kevin was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to education.

Cleave Hay

Statutory Manager

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Cleave first experienced school governance when he was co-opted onto a school board 25 years ago at a school his children were attending in South Canterbury. He has, for the last 20 years, worked one on one with close to 200 schools across the motu and has facilitated many workshops and conference presentations on behalf of NZSBA. He also worked in the NZSBA head office in two fixed term roles as the Principal Adviser Governance. For the past 13 years Cleave has operated fulltime as an independent contractor working with school boards, including 15 statutory appointments, and is currently Commissioner in two schools.

Wikus Swanepoel

Principal

Maidstone Intermediate School

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Originally from South Africa, I trained as a kaiako through the High School system. After moving to New Zealand in the early 2000s, I discovered my passion for the middle school years. I believe every learner is capable and that learning should be authentic, engaging, and interactive. As a tumuaki, I value the breadth of our responsibilities—from property to curriculum—and appreciate workshops like this that empower us to lead effectively and make informed decisions.