Upskilling, shared learning, camaraderie, conversation and connection were on the menu at these recent ISNZ Professional Learning and Development events.
Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Seminar
Seminar delegates came from across the motu to participate in our Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Seminar. The first part of the day included a legislation update from Rachael Judge and Rachel Nightingale, from Simpson Grierson. This was followed by an opportunity to discuss 'what's on top', led by colleagues from ISNZ member schools. After morning tea, Fiona Crawford and Lauren Johns explored transformative changes in the wellbeing / hauora education programme at Queen Margaret College. Jo Robertson joined us in the afternoon and presented on Raising Sexually Healthy and Digitally Literate Kids: Wellbeing in a Changing World.
Communications and Marketing Seminar
‘Lead with video and dedicate an ongoing resource to it!’ This was the mantra from Benjamin Johnson, Creative Director and Co-founder from Werk creative agency who presented at the Marketing and Communications Seminar. It was a fresh and confronting workshop designed to challenge the participants, who already brought a wealth of knowledge to the room. Focusing on their area of expertise Benjamin, Loren and Hayley presented on How to write a SMART brief, and social media benefits and pitfalls. It was a collegial and lively workshop which included a Q&A session, and group work sounding out a solution to three significant and fictional school situations.
Human Resources Seminar
There was no shortage of connection and conversation at our recent Human Resources seminar. Rachel Nightingale from Simpson Grierson spoke about the latest legislative changes and cases pertinent to independent schools. We heard from three key human resources leaders: Sandra Moore, Johanna Clark and Gail Price as they each shared a rapid fire ‘what’s on top.’ James Ting-Edwards from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner, New Zealand spoke about the importance of appropriate ways to look after personal information for recruits and staff. Tyrone Seccombe spoke about the Police Vetting Service, compulsory vetting, and what information to expect. Stu Birch's presentation focused on attracting the right talent for independent schools. In between the sessions there was plenty of opportunity to mingle and chat. Our CE, Guy Pascoe wrapped up the day with an Open Forum where delegates came prepared with questions to discuss.
