10-11 November 2026
Due Drop Events Centre, Auckland

THE KURA CONFERENCE

National curriculum changes are here.
Is your school up to speed?

From policy to pedagogy. We build the bridge.

New Zealand’s education landscape is shifting beneath our feet. Between navigating massive curriculum updates, managing staff wellbeing, and grappling with the rapid rise of AI in our classrooms, school leaders and educators are being asked to redesign learning in real-time.

The Kura Conference is where we move past the theory and offer proven approaches and examples to help shape solutions that fit your context. This is a multi-streamed, high-impact summit designed to give you the strategic tools, technological literacy, and leadership resilience required to guide your kura into the future.

Two Days. Three Streams.
One Definitive Event for Aotearoa’s Educators.

The Engine

Curriculum, pedagogy & change

We strip back the noise surrounding the national curriculum changes. From deep dives into Primary and Secondary shifts to the mechanics of change management, this stream provides the blueprint for implementing pedagogical shifts without losing your school’s unique identity.

The Frontier

Innovating the future of learning

Innovation is a core requirement for the modern classroom. We explore the ethical frontier of AI, practical use cases to reduce teacher workload, and how to build an innovation-ready culture. By championing integrated learning for purpose-led, real-world connections, this stream gives you the tools to prepare our ākonga for a future workforce that hasn’t been built yet.

The Heart

Leading for Impact

This stream explores the people challenges and opportunities facing today’s school leaders – from managing complaints, navigating difficult community dynamics, and tackling complex HR issues, to leading meaningful change within your kura. Learn from the experiences of other leaders and gain the latest insights into sustainable leadership practices that enable both people and schools to flourish.

8:30	Mihi Whakatau
8:45	Welcome from the Chair
9:00	Leading under pressure: Creating the conditions for people to thrive Drawing on more than two decades in psychology and high-performance environments, David Galbraith explores what happens to us - and the people around us - when pressure rises, expectations grow and change keeps coming. Explore how our own state, presence and behaviour (under pressure) can shape the energy, culture and performance of those around us Consider what helps people remain connected, courageous and able to perform when uncertainty, stress and change are present Look beyond simply managing stress or getting through change, and reflect on the conditions we can create for ourselves and others to genuinely thrive David Galbraith, Clinical Psychologist and Performance Coach
9:45	Learning beyond the algorithm: Preparing humans for a future we can't yet see Explore the human capabilities that will matter most in an AI-enabled world, including curiosity, judgement, creativity and relationships Discover how education can prepare learners for the future of work and leading intelligence through non-lineal learning Learn how to create digitally enabled futures that are culturally grounded, intergenerational, and protect the aspirations of Māori learners Challenge the rush to adopt new technology and explore how thoughtful, values-led innovation can deliver better outcomes for learners and communities Elle Archer, Systems Strategist and Futurist
10:30	Morning Tea
	The Engine Curriculum, pedagogy and change	The Frontier Innovating for the future of learning	The Heart Leading for impact
10:50	Welcome from the Chair Stephanie Thompson, Tumuaki, Beach Haven Primary School	Welcome from the Chair	Welcome from the Chair Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
11:00	Te Mātaiaho, New Zealand Curriculum Update Practical walkthrough of curriculum expectations Insights in to significant shifts after consultation Updates and insights into the next 3 years of curriculum roll out Considerations in ensuring cuturally responsive implementation of the curriculum Support resources available and professional learning opportunities Hayley Welch, General Manager, New Zealand Curriculum & Te Whāriki, Ministry of Education	From fashion to future pathways: Inspiring the next generation through technology and STEAM Explore Whaea Nan's journey from the fashion industry to becoming a technology educator and the lessons she's learned along the way Discover how blending emerging technologies with mātauranga Māori creates authentic, engaging learning experiences that inspire Māori students, girls, and future engineers Learn how whakawhanaungatanga, strong relationships, student voice, and real-world design projects can unlock creativity, confidence, and meaningful pathways beyond school Reflect on the importance of remaining a lifelong learner—embracing vulnerability, learning alongside students, and continually adapting to prepare young people for an ever-changing future Whaea Nan Walden, Design and Evaluation Lead, Te Ahuaha Hangarau Kaiako - Creative Technology Teacher, Wellington East Girls College 2026 New Zealand Prime Minister's Science Teacher Prize Recipient	Panel \| Holding the centre: Leading through change and adapting with purpose Explore practical strategies to navigate significant reform while protecting self and staff wellbeing Creating clarity, connection and confidence while helping staff adapt to uncertainty, shifting priorities and new ways of working Maintaining momentum through change and using strong leadership to turn reform into opportunities for your staff, ākonga and wider school community Lucy Naylor, Tumuaki, Milford School and President, Auckland Primary Principals Association Greg Allan, Tumuaki, South Makirikiri School Karen Brinsden, Tumuaki, Botany Downs Secondary College and President, Auckland Secondary Schools Principals’ Association Daryl Gibbs, Tumuaki, Cambridge Middle School and President, NZ Association of Intermediate Middle Schooling
11:45	Case studies \| How schools are redesigning curriculum through local contexts SCHOOL 1 Keeping focus: Curriculum design, Mātauranga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi Outlining approach to local curriculum design How this kura designed their implementation plan, prioritised steps and lead change throughout the community Deepening how te ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and local curriculum contexts are authentically embedded in everyday teaching Table discussions and Q&A Bryan Rehutai, Tumuaki, Te Uru Karaka Newton Central School	Reimagining learning for the AI era Establishing safe, ethical and effective AI use in NZ schools Building literacy across your community of teachers, students and whānau Leveraging AI to enhance indigenous education and safeguard data sovereignty Brendon Shaw, Educator, Papatoetoe North School, PHD student, University of Waikato	Leading with courage: Strengthening school culture through culturally responsive leadership Explore how courageous, values-driven leadership can foster a school culture grounded in trust, belonging, and high expectations for every learner Share practical strategies for building cultural capability across staff and embedding culturally responsive practice into everyday leadership Demonstrate how authentic partnerships with whānau and mana whenua can strengthen decision-making, enrich learning, and create a shared vision for success Highlight approaches that support equitable outcomes for Māori learners by embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments into school leadership, culture, and practice Leanne Otene, National Director, Te Arahou o Aotearoa Trust (Māori Achievement Collaborative - MAC)
12:30	Lunch
1:30	SCHOOL 2 Leading Curriculum Change That Works: Practical and Intentional Approach Learn how Brunswick school are navigating curriculum change and practical strategies to design effective teaching and learning programs Working alongside the Minister and Ministry; explore their trial of the draft learning areas in multi-level classrooms with a focus on social science and science curriculums outside of the year by year sequence Leading with intention and using a commonsense approach to change management and prioritisation Table discussions and Q&A Jane Corcoran, Tumuaki, Brunswick School and Vice President, NZ Rural Schools Leadership Association	Innovation station: Transforming learning through technology Hear directly from schools about how they're using technology to build creativity, problem-solving and real-world learning across the curriculum Discover how schools chose and incorporated new technologies, plus innovative approaches to getting more out of the tools they already have — and the results they've seen in the classroom Learn practical advice on when and how to introduce new technology, and how to build shared literacy across your school for using it safely and effectively Conor McHoull, Head of Digital Learning & Innovation, Kristin School Whaea Nan Walden, Design and Evaluation Lead, Te Ahuaha Hangarau Kaiako - Creative Technology Teacher, Wellington East Girls College Jo Rea, STEAM Specialist Teacher, Bayswater Primary School	Leading with confidence: managing complaints, investigations and community challenges Vexatious complaints, OIA requests and Ombudsman complaints Ensuring strong frameworks to deal with increase in challenges Responsibilities of the principal and board to ensure fair & reasonable investigation What it looks like to be under investigation Gretchen Stone, Partner, Harrison Stone
2:15	Panel \| Assessment and reporting in practice: Practical insights from schools navigating new requirements How schools are using SMART and other assessment tools to support decision-making Comparing assessment results across different tools to inform teaching and reporting Practical approaches to reporting student progress to whānau using multiple sources of evidence Real-world examples of how others are approaching challenges associated with multi-level classes, students with English as a second language and new assessment requirements Andrew King, Tumuaki, Ōropi School Tagget Christophersen, Deputy Principal, Cambridge Middle School Ngaria Stephenson, Principal, Woodland Park School	Whēnua First: Building a Rural Campus for Deeper Learning Discover MI Papakāinga, Manurewa Intermediate's Rural Campus, how the vision came to life, and the practical steps taken to transform the site into a thriving whēnua-based learning environment Learn how the school brought students, staff, whānau and the wider community on the journey, including the challenges faced and the partnerships that made the vision possible Explore practical examples of whēnua-based learning in action and the impact it has had on student engagement, wellbeing, resilience and environmental stewardship Jo McIntyre-Brown, Director MI Papakāinga (MISRC), Manurewa Intermediate School	Employment matters in schools: Navigating disputes, risk and complex cases Explore key principles of managing staff employment issues, disputes and performance concerns within a school context Examine case law examples that highlight different legal pathways, decision points and potential outcomes for employers Work through real-world complex scenarios to understand how similar situations can escalate and how to respond effectively and fairly Fi McMillan, Special Counsel, Anderson Lloyd
3:00	Afternoon tea
3:30	Workshop \| Navigating the curriculum refresh: From information to implementation Identify where your school is now and clarify the intended improvement for learners, drawing on curriculum requirements, evidence and lessons from the day Pinpoint one high-leverage implementation priority and map the leadership actions, responsibilities and support needed to move it forward Build a practical 90-day implementation plan, including checkpoints, evidence of progress and one immediate action to take before the end of the school year We encourage you to bring another team member to this session to collaborate and leave with clear collective next steps Sarah Hynds, Director, The Education Group	Tech showcase: Experience innovation in action Explore hands-on demonstrations of emerging technologies transforming teaching and learning Try practical tools including AI, robotics, coding, 3D printing and immersive technologies Connect with educators and technology experts to discover ideas you can take back to your school	TIPENE: Reimagining education for Māori boys Explore Tīpene’s co-principal leadership approach, its connections to the school’s history, and the early lessons gained on the journey so far Examine how the kura is using its unique place, history and geographic connections to create an education experience that reflects the strengths, aspirations and identity of its ākonga How the school is working to shift mindsets among students, designing an education model grounded in kaupapa Māori, and its vision for Māori boys education Nathan Durie, Co-Tumuaki, TIPENE
4:30	Leading with purpose: Driving curriculum and pedagogical change Implementing effective curriculum and pedagogical change while maintaining school values and strategic priorities Preparing and empowering teams to lead and sustain change across the whole school Incorporating authentic student voice and assessing learner needs to inform decision-making Providing adequate, equitable support for kaiako, ākonga, and their whānau while prioritising change for impact	Reducing workload with AI: Real-world strategies that save time Practical use case of using AI to complete administrative tasks, giving teachers more time to spend with students AI as a tool to enhance teacher capability (not a replacement) Lesson planning, checking data, how to train AI to adapt to your style, prompts	Leading for inclusion: Navigating behaviour in the classroom Building understanding of different behaviours and its impact on learning, wellbeing, and performance Creating inclusive environments with what you have in the classroom Practical strategies to support the different needs of your akonga Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
5:00	Networking Drinks

8:45	Welcome from the Chair
8:50	Transforming schools through connection, belonging and wellbeing Lessons from leading a whole-school transformation grounded in relationships, belonging, and equity Why wellbeing, cultural connection, and emotional safety are the foundations for engagement, achievement, and lasting change Using relational neuroscience and te ao Māori to create school cultures where learners, staff, and whānau thrive Jase Williams, TEDx Speaker, Author & Former Principal
	The Engine New Zealand Curiculum \| Te Mātaiaho, assessment and reporting	The Frontier Innovating for the future of learning	The Heart Leading for impact
9:40	Welcome from the Chair and introduction to stream Dr Catherine Law, Tumuaki, Avonside Girls High School and Program Lead Years 11-13 National Curriculum Development, MOE	Welcome from the Chair	Welcome from the Chair Stephen Evans, Tumuaki, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
9:45	10.00am Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, Māori-medium curriculum of New Zealand Practical walkthrough of curriculum expectations Insights into significant shifts after consultation Support resources available and professional learning opportunities Kiritina Johnstone, Programme Lead for Māori Medium within Te Poutāhū \| Curriculum Centre, Ministry of Education	Whanaungatanga in action: Building stronger community connections Learn how a student-led podcast became a powerful platform for sharing stories, amplifying voices, and deepening connections across the school community The importance of building meaningful partnerships with whānau and community groups to support student success Develop authentic and enduring relationships with local iwi that enrich learning and strengthen cultural understanding Explore practical ways to embed Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrate the diverse cultures represented within your kura Dan George, Tumuaki, Victory Primary School	PANEL \| Stepping up: Preparing for principalship Developing leadership capability and succession pathways within your school Practical steps aspiring principals can take now to prepare for the next stage Lessons on sustainable leadership, resilience, and avoiding burnout in the early years Alistair Luke, Tumuaki, Whangamata Area School Jo MacDonald, Kairangahau Matua, Senior Researcher, NZCER Rebekah Watts, Leadership Advisor, Ministry of Education
10:30	Morning Tea
11:00	Case studies \| How schools are redesigning curriculum Leading in Times of Change: Our Journey Towards the New Curriculum Prioritising Change – What matters most, and what comes first? Planning for Implementation – Turning curriculum direction into practical action Leading People Through Change – Building understanding, ownership and confidence Table discussions and Q&A Kirsty Dowding, Tumuaki, Hobsonville Point secondary School	STEAM in the new curriculum: Where does Technology fit? Explore how teachers can use Technology as a foundation for meaningful STEAM and integrated learning while still working within the requirements of the new curriculum Consider how knowledge, context, culture and purposeful practice can come together without losing the distinctive contribution of Technology within an integrated approach Take part in practical table discussions and examples that explore what integrated, knowledge-rich STEAM learning could look like in classrooms under the new curriculum Ruth Lemon, Kaiārahi Sarah Washbrooke, Deputy Chair Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ)	Leading safe outdoor learning: Governance, risk and responsibility Clarifying the roles of boards, principals and school leaders in creating safe, high-quality Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programmes Drawing on the Fatality Prevention Mindset, learn how leadership, governance, staff competence, clear responsibilities and learning from past incidents contribute to effective safety systems Explore practical examples to support discussion about overseeing higher-risk activities, working with external providers, responding to changing conditions, and ensuring that reviews and investigations lead to improved practice Fiona McDonald, Chief Executive, Education Outdoors New Zealand
11:45	Case studies \| How schools are redesigning curriculum Leading Curriculum Change: From Planning to Implementation Learn more about how Whangamata Area School is approaching implementation plans, prioritisation and leading curriculum change Explore structure of delivery and timetable design for Y9-10 and early planning for 2028 and beyond Leading change with confidence and purpose, and inspiring others through uncertainty Alistair Luke, Tumuaki, Whangamata Area School	Case study 1 \| STEAM in action: A school's journey to real-world learning Explore how one school has embedded STEAM across its curriculum to create authentic, engaging and future-focused learning experiences Learn about the structures, partnerships and teaching approaches that support interdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning Gain practical insights into the challenges, successes and lessons learned, with ideas you can adapt to your own school context Jo Naera, STEAM Teacher, Maungatapu School Tane Bennett, Tumuaki, Maungatapu School	Student voice: Empowering young people to shape their future Hear this firsthand story of advocating for curriculum change as a secondary student, and explore what her experience reveals about giving young people a genuine voice in shaping the systems they learn within Reflect on the role schools and leaders play in building student confidence, agency and leadership, and how creating space for student voice can influence young people well beyond their time at school Take away practical perspectives on how principals can foster a culture where students are encouraged to speak up, challenge ideas, take action and connect their learning to the world beyond the classroom Leah Bell, Former Student Curriculum Advocate and Researcher, Tauhokohoko Project
12:30	Lunch
1:30	Table discussions - Preparing for Y11 in 2028 Facilitated table discussions with schools facing similar opportunities and challenges Opportunity to share ideas with your peers and plans for Y11 in 2028 Early thinking around time table design, removal of exams and preparing the first cohort Dr Catherine Law, Tumuaki, Avonside Girls High School and Program Lead Years 11-13 National Curriculum Development, MOE	Case study 2 \| STEAM in action: From getting started to making an impact Hear how Papakura High School has established a STEAM program across its curriculum to create authentic, engaging and future-focused learning experiences Explore the lessons learned, challenges and early successes of a new program, alongside the vision for how it can evolve and create greater opportunities for students Discover how STEAM education has increased engagement and attendance and allowed students to feel included, capable and connected to their learning and the real world Take away practical ideas, strategies and approaches you can adapt as you develop or strengthen STEAM in your own school Anusha Soupen, Director of STEAM, Papakura High School	From overseas to Aotearoa: Supporting international teachers to thrive Helping international teachers navigate the culture, values, and expectations of New Zealand kura Building international teachers' cultural literacy, their understanding of te Tiriti and an appreciation of our history Lessons learned from successfully recruiting, retaining, and supporting international teaching staff Anne Robertson, Kaihuawaere \| Learning Consultant, Tātai Aho Rau - Core Education
2:15	Process and design: The new qualifications and assessment Understanding the current design process for the NZ Certificate of Education and the NZ Advanced Certificate of Education Insights from consultation and opportunities to be involved	Inspired by STEAM: Finding my path to engineering Hear this presenter's personal journey into STEM, including what inspired her and the experiences that shaped her pathway into engineering Explore how hands-on learning, opportunity and encouragement helped build confidence and open new possibilities Consider how educators can create more opportunities for young people to see themselves in STEM and feel inspired to pursue STEM careers Lynn Catton, Mechanical Engineering Graduate, BlueScope Steel	AI in school leadership: Practical tools to support decision-making and school improvement Explore how AI can support leadership teams with workload, planning, communication and decision-making Hear practical examples from kura on how AI is being used in day-to-day school leadership Consider opportunities, risks and ethics while keeping students at the centre of decision-making
3:00	Summary remarks from the Chair Dr Catherine Law, Tumuaki, Avonside Girls High School	Summary remarks from the Chair	Summary remarks from the Chair Stephen Evans, Principal, Te Whānau ŌtūMatua
3:15	Conference end

Speakers

Sarah Hynds

Director

The Education Group

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Sarah is an experienced leader known for developing high-performing teams and supporting emerging leaders. As Principal of Karaka School in South Auckland, she embedded Assessment for Learning across the school, creating a model of practice for others. Her strengths include leading organisational change, coaching and mentoring, curriculum design, assessment systems, collaborative inquiry, and building inclusive, improvement-focused cultures.

Sarah works confidently with Senior and Middle Leaders, and teachers in organisational improvement, strategic planning, curriculum development, pedagogy, coaching, leadership development and Professional Growth Cycles. She is deeply committed to ākonga wellbeing and achievement.

Sarah Washbrooke

Deputy Chair

Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ)

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Sarah has been teaching Technology for over twenty five years in the UK and NZ after completing her BA (Hons) Industrial Design and Technology degree. She has led teams and facilitated professional learning for teachers in different areas of STEM & Technology. Sarah has taught a wide range of ages, needs and cultures in different school environments as a Technology specialist. She is always ready to develop her understanding and knowledge in Technology and has taken part in many PLD projects, including the MoE Resource development and facilitation project, regional hub leader for Kia Takatū ā-Matihiko, TENZ’s Matanga project & DTTA executive. In 2020, Sarah was the first Technology teacher in NZ to receive the Prime Minister’s Science Teacher prize.

Jo Rea

STEAM Specialist Teacher

Bayswater Primary School

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Jo is a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) specialist teacher working across two primary schools in Tāmaki Makaurau. She brings practical classroom expertise to the TENZ council and is passionate about supporting teachers to authentically integrate Hangarau and STEAM across the curriculum.

Previously a Digital Technologies specialist, Jo has led professional learning for teachers throughout Australia and New Zealand. Her particular interests include digital citizenship and safety, design thinking, artificial intelligence, animation and 3D modelling at the primary level, with a focus on making emerging technologies engaging and accessible for young learners.

Tagget Christophersen

Deputy Principal

Cambridge Middle School

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I am a Deputy Principal at Cambridge Middle School. Key areas I lead are curriculum, assessment and reporting, learning support, and transitions. I am passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that enable all ākonga to experience success academically, socially and culturally. A key focus of my leadership is using assessment thoughtfully to inform teaching, understand learner progress and communicate clearly with whānau. I value drawing on multiple sources of evidence to build a rich picture of learning and progress. I am particularly interested in practical, responsive approaches to assessment and reporting that support kaiako decision-making while recognising the diverse strengths and needs of ākonga.

Anne Robertson

Kaihuawaere | Learning Consultant

Tātai Aho Rau, Core Education

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Anne brings over 40 years of experience in teaching and leading change across the UK and Aotearoa, providing a deep understanding of kaiako (teachers), ākonga (learners), and diverse school contexts. At the heart of her mahi is strengthening pedagogy through the science of learning, enabling kaiako to embed evidence-informed strategies that promote deep understanding and long-term retention, ultimately leading to improved learner outcomes. Anne is committed to learning that is relevant, culturally grounded, and connected to the stories of place.

Lynn Catton

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

New Zealand Steel

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I’m Lynn Catton, a Graduate Mechanical Engineer at New Zealand Steel. Growing up, I never imagined a career in engineering was possible for someone like me. With encouragement, hands-on learning, and a determination to create a better future, I found my path into STEM. Today, I’m passionate about sharing my story, supporting young people through the Wonder Project, and helping students see that their background doesn’t define their potential. I hope to inspire others to explore STEM careers and believe in opportunities they may not yet see for themselves.

Leah Bell

Former Student Curriculum Advocate

Researcher, Tauhokohoko Project

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Leah Bell is a historian, researcher, and advocate, recently completing her Masters thesis in Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Waikato. Leah’s research contributed to Tauhokohoko’s international indigenous trade framework, and Ngāti Apakura’s Iwi-Crown reconciliation process. As a secondary student, Leah co-led the national campaign ‘Rā Maumahara,’ establishing the New Zealand Wars as a statutory day of remembrance, and helping introduce the Aotearoa New Zealand Histories curriculum. She received a National Youth Cultural Changemaker award in 2017, and her advocacy was recognised by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in her 2022 Harvard commencement speech. Leah’s work bridges research and community engagement, championing youth agency in education and the arts.

Ruth Lemon

Kaiārahi

Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ)

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Ruth Lemon is a researcher, educator, and curriculum developer with a longstanding interest in technology education, teaching and learning, and hangarau curriculum design. Her research focuses on hangarau education, exploring how curriculum and classroom practice intersect to support meaningful learning experiences.

Alongside her research, Ruth works with TENZ, contributing to curriculum development, professional learning, and the creation of resources that support kaiako across Aotearoa. She enjoys translating research into practical classroom resources, with projects such as Wiriwiri and Kina, and HOHI 1816 reflecting this commitment.

Over more than twenty years, Ruth has taught across Māori-medium, English-medium, and international settings, including at Newton Central School and in Huarahi Māori initial teacher education at Waipapa Taumata Rau. These experiences continue to shape her interest in curriculum innovation, authentic learning, and the relationship between research and classroom practice.

Anusha Soupen

Director of the STEAM Academy

Papakura High School

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Anusha Nirene Soupen is a dynamic mathematics educator and educational leader with over 38 years of teaching experience across South Africa and Aotearoa New Zealand, 20 of those in middle- and senior-management roles. She is Director of the STEAM Academy at Papakura High School, where she leads innovative approaches to curriculum design, interdisciplinary learning and digital fluency. Anusha is passionate about transforming STEAM through authentic, creative and technology-rich learning experiences. Her work integrates mathematics, engineering, science, technology and the arts to develop confident, capable and curious learners. She is committed to teacher development, educational innovation and creating equitable opportunities for students to succeed.

Jo MacDonald

Kairangahau Matua, Senior Researcher

NZCER

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Jo has a keen interest and expertise in policy and programme evaluation and is one of NZCER’s lead evaluators. She currently leads NZCER’s long-standing Uiuinga ā-Motu o ngā Kura, National Survey of Schools. These 3-yearly surveys of principals and teachers give a timely and useful picture of what is happening in our schools. Jo is experienced with using diverse evaluation methodologies,and applying evaluative reasoning to reach evaluative judgements. In either research or evaluation contexts, she particularly enjoys building strong, productive relationships with clients. Jo is an active member of the Aotearoa New Zealand Evaluation Association (ANZEA) and currently sits on the Wellington branch committee.

Lucy Naylor

Tumuaki, Milford School

President, Auckland Primary Principals Association

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Tane Bennett

Tumuaki

Maungatapu School

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Tane Bennett is the Principal of Maungatapu Primary School in Tauranga, New Zealand, appointed in 2019, with a background in education leadership, culturally responsive teaching, and community engagement. Tane is a former student at the school and is a strong supporter of STEAM education. Maungatapu School was established in 1881 and has a rich history. Our history, land, and people are integral to our school culture and curriculum. Our roll currently sits at approximately 600 students. We offer a dual-medium curriculum: the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC) for around 480 learners, and Te Marautanga o Aotearoa for approximately 120 learners. We proudly feature our very own dedicated STEAM class, purposefully designed and resourced for primary-aged children. Our STEAM programme caters to a range of learning styles with key future-focused skills: curiosity, problem-solving, perseverance, communication, and collaboration.

Kiritina Johnstone

Programme Lead for Māori Medium, Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre

Ministry of Education

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Kiritina Johnstone (Ngāti Kurī, Te Aupouri, Te Parawhau, Patu Harakeke) is an experienced education leader and Programme Lead for Māori Medium within Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education. She has a strong commitment to advancing equitable and high-quality outcomes for Māori learners across the Early Learning and Schooling sectors. Based in the Wellington Region, she brings extensive expertise in kaupapa Māori, language revitalisation, curriculum development, and strategic programme leadership within Māori education and across Māori-medium education settings. Throughout her career, Kiritina has worked collaboratively with educators, whānau, iwi, and sector partners to strengthen teaching and learning practices that uphold te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, Māori knowledge systems and processes, and culturally responsive approaches. She is passionate about creating opportunities for innovation and excellence across the education system while ensuring Māori learners can thrive as Māori in an ever-evolving global world. Kiritina is the mother of five amazing children and 9 mokopuna who are her “why” in everything she does across the education system. Alongside her husband her whānau push her everyday to do what is needed to be sure all children across the system have access to everything they are entitled to so they can be successful in whatever they choose. Recognised for her collaborative leadership style, strategic thinking, and dedication to educational success, Kiritina is committed to supporting meaningful change that enhances outcomes for learners, educators, and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Jo Naera

STEAM Specialist Teacher

Te Kura o Maungatapu

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Jo Naera is a passionate primary educator with over 20 years of experience empowering young learners across all primary school levels. Currently serving as the STEAM Specialist Teacher at Maungatapu School in Tauranga, Jo designs dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation.

Prior to her specialist role, Jo spent five years as a Year 5/6 Team Leader, guiding collaborative teaching teams and fostering strong student achievement before taking time to start a family. Jo is deeply committed to educational equity, striving to ensure every student, regardless of background or learning style, has the opportunity to succeed. She focuses on developing active problem-solvers who are creatively engaged, confident in their abilities, and equipped with the skills to navigate a changing world.

David Galbraith

Clinical Psychologist, Leadership Mentor

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David Galbraith is a NZ Registered Clinical Psychologist and leadership mentor who has spent decades walking with people at the edge of what is required of them, including Olympic athletes, national teams, and business leaders. His guidance is also influenced by Eastern philosophies and grounded in calm under pressure, deep preparation, and a steady authority that places who you become above what you achieve. Today, his focus is on making this guidance available through multiple pathways to those willing to meet life and leadership with the same depth.

Jane Corcoran

Tumuaki

Brunswick School

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Jane Corcoran is the Principal of Brunswick School in Whanganui and Vice President of the New Zealand Rural and Area Schools Leadership Association (NZRASLA). With more than 30 years’ experience in education across New Zealand and internationally, Jane has taught and led in both urban and rural schools. Recognised for her authentic, experience-based approach to multi-level teaching, Jane challenges traditional year-level thinking and shares practical strategies for leading sustainable curriculum change. Jane believes that high-performing schools are built through collaborative team cultures underpinned by clarity, trust, and intentional leadership.

Nathan Durie

Co‑Tumuaki

TIPENE

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Nathan Durie is Co‑Tumuaki at TIPENE (formerly St Stephen’s School) and a leading figure in re‑establishing an iconic Māori boys’ boarding kura after 25 years, with a vision to empower Māori and Pasifika rangatahi through culturally grounded, holistic education. He is a former student of St Stephen’s School and has been a Tumuaki for 26 years with continuing engagement as a current classroom teacher. Nathan has his postgraduate degree in Sport Management, a Postgraduate Diploma in Bilingual Teaching, a Bachelor of Education and Diploma of Teaching.

Karen Brinsden

Tumuaki

Botany Downs Secondary College

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Karen Brinsden is the Principal/Tumuaki of Botany Downs Secondary College in East Auckland, a large multicultural secondary school of approximately 2,000 students. Since helping establish the college in its early years, Karen has played a significant role in shaping its distinctive whānau-based culture, where belonging, wellbeing, and achievement are seen as essential foundations for success.

With more than a decade of leadership experience, Karen is passionate about culturally responsive leadership, educational equity, and creating environments where young people can thrive academically, socially, and personally. She is committed to developing future-focused learning communities that celebrate diversity and empower students to become confident, connected learners.

Karen also serves as President of the Auckland Secondary Principals’ Association (ASSPA), advocating for secondary education and supporting school leaders across the Auckland region.

Jase Williams

TEDx Speaker, Author & Former Principal

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Jase Williams is a facilitator, author, and advocate dedicated to the vital intersection of relational neuroscience, indigenous knowledge, and equity-centred practice. With 25+ years of experience, Jase walks alongside people to help them return to our most basic of human needs: belonging, unconditional love, and the restorative power of healthy relationships.

He is the author of Your Trauma Has A Whakapapa, where he invites us into a collective conversation on breaking generational trauma through remembering, reparenting, and reclaiming our well-being. As a National Champion for the Ministry of Social Development’s Changemaker programme, Jase supports community-led systems change and family violence prevention, drawing on his extensive experience across correctional facilities, social services, mental health, and suicide awareness to help individuals and organisations navigate trauma, intergenerational harm, and recovery.

Jase served as the Principal of Henry Hill School (2012–2022)—where he led a transformation recognised by the Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Award for Wellbeing.

Whether addressing a TEDx audience, working alongside incarcerated men to reclaim their narratives, or supporting parents and professionals in finding connection, Jase brings a relentless commitment to equity. He remains a leading voice here in New Zealand and internationally, challenging us to recognise that the path to true healing is always found in the strength of our collective humanity.

Fiona McDonald

Chief Executive

Education Outdoors New Zealand

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Fiona McDonald is the Chief Executive of Education Outdoors New Zealand (EONZ), where she provides expert support to schools and empowers educators to deliver safe, high-quality education outside the classroom (EOTC). A former PE and outdoor education teacher and senior school leader, Fiona has contributed to national resources including the Ministry of Education’s EOTC Guidelines, Safety Management Template and Toolkit, Good Practice Guidelines and curriculum. She is passionate about collaboration, sector leadership, and fostering innovative, meaningful connections to te taiao (the natural world) through education.

Kura Conference Advisory Panel

Our Advisory Panel brings together some of New Zealand’s most respected education leaders, with expertise spanning school leadership, curriculum design, technology education, learning support, and system-wide change.

Their collective experience has helped shape a programme that reflects the challenges, opportunities, and priorities facing schools today

Julie Schumacher

Educational Research and Development Consultant
| Director

The Education Group

Vaughan Couillault

Programme Lead – Engagement (Curriculum and Assessment Change Program)

Papatoetoe High School

Sarah Washbrooke

Deputy Chair

TENZ

Billie-Jean Potaka Ayton

Principal

Kaiti School

Catherine Law

Principal

Avonside Girls’ High School

Why your school will value this investment:

The Kura Conference is designed for maximum institutional impact, tailored specifically for Primary & Secondary School Leaders, HODs, Lead Teachers, and Educational Innovators.

Because this is a multi-streamed event covering curriculum, tech, and wellbeing simultaneously, the most effective strategy is to send a leadership cohort to divide and conquer the program. By customising your team’s experience and swapping between streams, your school will walk away with a comprehensive return on investment:

Actionable Curriculum Blueprints:

Your curriculum leads and HODs will gain ready-to-implement frameworks for the refreshed national curriculum, moving seamlessly from policy to classroom practice.

Workload Reduction through Tech:

Your educational innovators will discover verified AI and tech use cases specifically vetted to give teachers time back and streamline administration.

Strategic Alignment & Value Protection:

Your senior leadership team will acquire the change-management tools needed to align incoming national priorities with your school’s unique local values.

Staff Resilience & Wellbeing:

Your leadership cohort will bring back practical, systemic strategies to combat teacher burnout, navigate complex student behaviours, and support neurodivergence.

National Networking:

Your staff will connect and collaborate with primary and secondary peers from across Aotearoa who are successfully navigating the exact same transitions.

Tickets Opening Soon — Register Your Interest

We are currently finalising our ticketing tiers, including exclusive early-bird rates and team package discounts. Register your interest below.

This event is ideal for:

Executives and leaders: Those responsible for driving strategic change and organisational transformation.
Change management professionals: Individuals who specialise in managing and leading change initiatives.
HR professionals: HR leaders and practitioners interested in fostering a culture of change and employee engagement.
Consultants and advisors: Professionals who support organisations in their change and transformation journeys.
Anyone seeking to develop their leadership skills and ability to navigate change.

Venue

The location and how you can get there

Address

Due Drop Events Centre
770 Great South Road,
Wiri, Auckland

Tickets - choose your option

$1100

$ 1000 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 20 October, 2026.

$1500

$ 1300 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 20 October, 2026.

$1900

$ 1700 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 20 October, 2026.

$ 1100 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 10 November, 2026.

$ 1500 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 10 November, 2026.

$ 1900 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 10 November, 2026.

$1100

$ 800 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 25 September, 2026.

$ 1100 + gst Per Person

Must be from the same organisation & book at the same time. For valid tickets, payment by 25 September, 2026.

$1900

$ 1500 + gst

For valid ticket, payment by 25 September, 2026.

Registration Conditions

Ticket Terms
All prices are in New Zealand dollars ($NZD)
A surcharge of 2.5% + GST applies to credit card payments on top of the total amount.
Super Early Bird Tickets are valid only for the specific event for which they were purchased and cannot be transferred to other events. To remain valid, Super Saver and Early Bird tickets must be paid by date quoted.
Group ticket options are valid for registrations from the same organisation, booked at the same time.
By selecting any special pricing offer for classes of organisation, sector, or individuals or using any promotion code, you are asserting to the organiser your right to claim any such pricing offer, and acknowledge the organiser’s right to audit such claim and, if in the opinion of the organiser using its sole discretion the conditions for special pricing are not met, reject any registration.

For full terms & conditions, please visit https://www.brightstar.co.nz/terms-and-conditions

Exhibitor

Skool Loop

Supporting Organisations

NZAIMS

TENZ Technology Education NZ

NZ Rural Schools Leadership Association

Sponsorship & Exhibition Opportunities

Aotearoa’s schools are facing massive curriculum changes, staff burnout, and the rise of AI. Decision-makers aren’t just looking for advice—they are looking for tools, tech, and partners to help them execute.

The Kura Conference 2026 brings together primary and secondary principals, board members, and educational innovators. Align your brand with our dedicated Curriculum, Innovation, or Leadership streams and pitch directly to the budget holders.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Contact us today to learn more or secure your spot at this leading event.

Check out our other upcoming events

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AI in the Classroom

Jun 1, 2027 - Jun 2, 2027

Christchurch

Conference