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Former Wellsford School deputy principal Jen Roberts has stepped into the role of principal, following the departure of Dave Bradley after 15 years.
Roberts has a career spanning more than 30 years, with her first role at Manurewa Central Primary School. A move to Wellington in 1999 saw her teaching in Porirua and Lower Hutt, before a return to Auckland 10 years later to support her daughter Jessica, who was at law school.
Roberts has a strong interest in science, technology, digital technology and mathematics.
She says Wellsford School was also a good match for her, taking on the role of deputy principal in 2020 and then acting principal last year, when Bradley was on sick leave.
Coming from an urban background, she is enjoying the combined urban and rural lifestyle around Wellsford.
“Wellsford School is an amazing place with fantastically diverse students,” she says.
“It is awesome listening to the students telling stories about the farms and calves being born, and watching animals in the paddock next to the school. The students make the school a special place and the staff all value them and work hard to make school an engaging place.”
Some changes are coming as Roberts settles into her new role.
“As we move forward, the school is building its capability to introduce the new Aotearoa Histories Curriculum and the New Zealand Curriculum refresh.”
Roberts says preparations for an increase in the school roll is already well in hand.
“We are working with the Ministry of Education and three architects,” she says.
A keen walker and swimmer, Roberts lives in Orewa.
