The Huanui College Boards of Trustees provide strategic leadership and direction to our kura. The board works in partnership with the community, principal, teachers, support staff, and the government to ensure the best possible outcomes for all students.
Plus Philip Coombe (Principal) and Debby Bain (Board Secretary).
Joanne has a diverse background in Human Resources consulting and management across a wide range of industries. Over the years she has worked in NZ, Hong Kong, the UK and Australia while travelling extensively. Joanne currently specialises in Executive Coaching, Career Development and Executive Search.
Joanne believes strongly in education in all its forms. Experience has shown her that a good education opens doors way beyond just having a good career. It allows us to lift our thinking, extend our empathy and engage with the wider world to navigate the different cultures and complexities which are part of our global future. It is because of Joanne’s commitment to education that she is on two school boards. Continuous growth and innovation in education is her dream for Huanui College.
Huanui College came about by the vision of its founders, Mr Evan Hamlet, and Mrs Anna Hamlet. Evan, originally from Dargaville, established the College to provide high quality independent education. The College aims to develop students’ talents and abilities in a learning environment that encourages excellent attitudes to learning and life within a caring community that involves parents in their child’s education.
Huanui College was established on 8 February 2010. It was officially opened by the Honourable Heather Roy and Mayor Stan Semenoff on March 10, 2010 at the College Opening Day, and was blessed by the Reverend Hake Parata and he tangata o Pehiaweri Marae.
Philip began his teaching career at Hamilton Boys High School and then moved to Auckland Grammar School, and on to senior positions at Macleans College and King’s College. Philip describes these as wonderful experiences and he comments that he has been privileged to work with many outstanding teachers and students.
Philip’s own interests have developed around student thinking and learning, curriculum and professional learning as well as being widely involved in a variety of sports, notably football and rowing. He is a past national examiner, curriculum advisor and a trustee of the New Zealand Education Scholarship Trust. Philip chose to come to Huanui College as he looks forward to helping create something very special and unique within the Northland community.
Debby grew up in Whangārei, and was away overseas for over 20-years. She has experience in commercial real estate for a global company, though enjoys working in the education sector. Debby appreciates working with the students and staff at the College, while appreciating the different levels of interaction from Board members, students and families. The fluidity of her role is an aspect that Debby appreciates, and she observes that the Covid pandemic has taught us all patience, perseverance and to continue to push forward when there are challenges. What Debby enjoys about working at Huanui College is seeing staff work hard for students in helping them achieve the best they can be in a positive environment – that makes all the difference.