2026 Strategic Direction and a Call for Leadership WAG

The Leadership Working Action Group (WAG) has been meeting to refine our strategic plan, guided by a single, core purpose: to ensure all principals thrive and lead with purpose. We are acutely aware of the mounting concerns across APPA regarding workload, wellbeing, retention, and the professional isolation that can define the principalship. In response, our direction for the coming year will focus on providing absolute clarity for leaders on the support they can access, fostering positive connections, and being a responsive, optimistic voice that advocates for our colleagues. We must ensure every principal, particularly those new to the role, knows the full range of support networks available to them.

A crucial component of this support is the evolution of the Principal Mentoring Programme and the Aspiring Principal Programme. The Ministry is shifting to a new model that is 'principal-centred' rather than 'provider-centric'. This is a vital and positive change that puts Beginning Principals (BPs) and Aspiring Principals (APs) firmly in the driver's seat. It empowers them to choose a mentor who truly fits their specific context, whether they need someone with intermediate sector experience, a female colleague, or a Māori or Pasifika leader who understands their cultural journey.

This new model's success, however, is entirely dependent on us. A profession must grow its own; while the MoE has a part to play, they cannot and should not do this for the sector. Beginning principals consistently report that mentoring is the single most valuable aspect of their support. To ensure this new, flexible model works, we have a collective responsibility to populate it with high-quality, experienced mentors from our own APPA membership. While we have 38 principals who have applied to be mentors so far, we need a deeper, more diverse pool to meet the needs of our new colleagues.

We understand that some may be concerned about committing until there is clarity around recognition and time. Whether you agree or not, the PPBCU Settlement gives a clear steer on recognition. It is important to remember that the mentor doesn't do everything. Your role is to serve as a guide, while other experts in the system, such as MOE Leadership Advisors (which doubles to 32 in 2026) and the NZSBA, provide specialised support. This is our opportunity to lead from the front and ensure our future colleagues are supported by the best our profession has to offer.