New principal has experience
Matamata College’s newly appointed principal Alan Munro is stepping into the role with more than 10 years’ experience at the school.
Mr Munro started as deputy principal in 2001 and said he was looking forward to taking up the top job.
‘‘I want to keep building on the good things that are happening and continue the success of the school,’’ he said.
‘‘I’m really fortunate coming from within. If I was coming from outside the school I wouldn’t know half as much.’’
Mr Munro grew up in rural Waikato, where his parents were sharemilkers. He attended Te Aroha College.
‘‘I understand country communities and I’m passionate about country schools,’’ he said.
‘‘I’ve worked in a number of other schools and Matamata College is the one I’ve enjoyed the most.
‘‘To have the opportunity principal here is an honour.’’
Working with departing principal Glenn Rowsell for the last 11 years had been a positive learning experience for Mr Munro.
‘‘Glenn has been an outstanding role model and although he jokingly says that I have learned everything from him, he has been an inspiration to work with and I’ve got big boots to fill,’’ said Mr Munro.
‘‘I’m lucky to follow someone like Glenn, who has given his heart and soul to the school.’’
With board of trustee elections halfway through next year, Mr Munro said there were exciting times ahead for the school.
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‘‘For the most part, it will be business as usual but the election will give us a chance to start looking at how the school will move forward.’’
Joining Mr Munro in the management team next year will be newlyappointed deputy principal Simon James.
Mr James is coming from Reporoa College in Rotorua where he has been head of the maths department for the last four years.
‘‘I’m excited,’’ he said. ‘‘I’m looking forward to being a part of improving outcomes for kids in this school.’’
Mr James was also curriculum manager and year 10 dean at Reporoa.
‘‘I’ve taught a wide variety of children – from city schools in England to rural Rotorua and Bay of Plenty.’’
Mr Munro said Mr James’ experience would complement the rest of the management team, including deputy principal Lynette Parish and assistant principal Faye Matthew.