Maria Dunn

Current Role – Deputy Principal, Ko te Kura tuarua o ngā Taitamāhine o Kirikiriroa (Hamilton Girls’ High School)

My secondary education career spans over 20 years, 7 years in Senior Leadership, holding portfolio’s in Teaching and Learning, Pastoral and Curriculum. Before entering senior leadership, I spent 12 years in Middle leadership, holding roles as Head of Department, House and Year level Dean and Academic Coach.

My teaching career began at Rotorua Girls’ High School, before holding roles at Avonside Girls’ High School, Whāngarei Girls’ High School, Fairfield College then Hamilton Girls’ High School. My subject areas have included, Physical Education and Health, Te Reo Māori, English, Tikanga Māori and Social Studies. These opportunities support the notion that teaching and learning requires, agency, knowledge, understanding and flexibility to adapt to change and a range of challenges. Before entering education my career included the Health sector as a Nurse and member of the Royal New Zealand Airforce. 

I am very passionate about education; supporting our young people to navigate through their teenage years, equipped and ready for the future. As a member of the NASDAP executive team, it is a privilege serving both the Waikato/Thames region and working to add value to the role of all AP/DP’s nationwide.This role is an important part of ensuring that all senior leaders voices are heard, feel valued and supported in a role that has become increasingly demanding.