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Horizon School in Snells Beach has a new principal, Daniel Bennett, who will start on November 4.
Bennett brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously taught at ACG Parnell College, Kristin College, an international school in Asia and, most recently, at KingsWay School in Red Beach, where he was the head of the senior school for six years.
The position was recommended to him by his new colleagues, who thought he would be “a good fit”, as Horizon School has a faith-based perspective, which Bennett says can make for a great school culture.
“There are a lot of exciting initiatives at Horizon I would like to continue to see flourish, including the integrated learning approach, environmental focus and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) initiatives,” he says.
“We also have a unique opportunity to coach students to think contextually using a biblical worldview framework.
“I want to make the most of our small community by continuing to invest in students as individuals through mentoring and growing leadership opportunities.”
Outside of work, Bennett is a keen hiker and has been ticking off New Zealand’s Great Walks with his two daughters, son, and wife Nicole, who is also an educator.
He says his family has an affinity with Mahurangi and that they plan to move to the area.
“We holiday here every chance we get. Visiting Charlies Gelato in Matakana is a tradition for us and we love Tāwharanui and Tamahunga for kiwi spotting and as hiking destinations.”
Bennett says as a family they have enjoyed being a part of smaller communities in the past.
He replaces Tina Utting-Johnson.
