New deputy principal at Forest View

His passion for teaching and sense of community has drawn Steve English to Tokoroa’s Forest View High School.

As the new deputy principal, Mr English is determined to build on the already sterling reputation of the school. ‘‘This is a calibre place to be,’’ Mr English says. ‘‘Before interviewing for the job, I have to identify what I could offer to the community of Tokoroa and Forest View High School. I feel I have something to offer to help move our students onto a pathway of success.’’

A creative thinker, who believes that creating change to inspire and motivate students is the way of the future. And who can doubt a man whose curriculum vitae tells a tale of accomplishment.

Mr English and his wife moved to New Zealand in 1987 to begin teaching in Porirua.

Mr English and his family, two boys and one daughter made the move to Rarotonga in 1998 as a teacher at Tereora College.

In 2002 Mr English and his family returned to Rotorua where he has taught at Rotorua Lakes High School and as an assessment advisor for the University of Waikato.

So what are his goals for Forest View High School?

‘‘I want to move forward with the school, moving towards key competency. I, as many other teachers around New Zealand have serious concerns about the achievement levels of male Maori students and Polynesian students. This is where I will be putting my energy.‘‘

Mr English who is aware of the friendly rivalry between both Forest View and Tokoroa High School, says competitiveness should only be on the sports fields and not in the classroom.