Rachel Thompson
WG
Summary
A dedicated and experienced Deputy Principal and SENCO with over 20 years in primary education, including 10 years in senior leadership. I am passionate about nurturing student wellbeing and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment for every child. My leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, supportive mentorship for staff, and a deep commitment to enhancing pedagogical practices, particularly in structured literacy and supporting students with diverse learning needs. I value building strong, trusting relationships within the school community and thoughtfully using data to guide and celebrate student progress.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Principal/SENCO
Fernlea Primary School
01.2016 - Current
- Provided strategic leadership as Deputy Principal, driving the development, implementation, and monitoring of school-wide strategic goals and annual plans.
- Represented and acted for the Principal as a school community educational leader when required, demonstrating strong leadership and decision-making.
- Led the SENCO portfolio, overseeing comprehensive programmes for ORS students, advocating for their needs, and coaching/mentoring teaching staff and teacher aides.
- Initiated and led the school-wide implementation of structured literacy, initially driving change in the Junior School (2021) and then across all levels.
- Utilised coaching skills to significantly impact pedagogical change and foster continuous improvement across teaching teams.
- Conducted rigorous data analysis (formative and summative) to inform teaching and learning, monitor target student progress, and report to the Board of Trustees.
- Provided school-wide leadership in assessment and curriculum development, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and best practices.
- Assisted with the development, maintenance, and evaluation of robust school management structures, systems, and processes.
- Developed and led "Mutakaroa," an innovative early assessment and parent collaboration programme to set learning goals for new entrants.
- Facilitated assessments and applications for students requiring support from Child Development, Assistive Technology, RTLB, ICAFS, and Speech & Language services.
- Led and modelled best practice teaching, inspiring pedagogical excellence across the staff.
- Managed key organisational duties, including arranging CRT (Curriculum Release Time) and relievers.
- Chaired and facilitated effective team meetings, fostering collaborative professional discussion and planning.
- Led comprehensive self-review processes to ensure continuous improvement in school operations and student outcomes.
- Actively championed student well-being initiatives across the school.
- Provided crucial guidance and mentorship for new or beginning teachers, supporting their professional integration and development.
- Acting Principal for Term 3, 2021.
Assistant Principal & New Entrant Teacher (Junior
Fernlea Primary School
01.2010 - 12.2015
- Led the Junior Syndicate of 4 classrooms, overseeing curriculum and pastoral care for junior school students.
- Managed and supported 7 junior school staff, promoting collaborative planning and best practices.
- Developed and implemented the school's comprehensive transition to school programme.
- Maintained full classroom responsibilities as a New Entrant Teacher.
New Entrant Teacher
Fernlea Primary School
01.2007 - 12.2010
- Designed and delivered engaging and age-appropriate learning experiences for new entrant students.
- Established strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
- Fostered positive relationships with students and their families to support early learning.
- Developed collaborative relationships with early learning centres in Wainuiomata
Scale A Junior School Teacher
Normandale Primary School
01.1998 - 12.2006
- Delivered high-quality teaching and learning programmes to junior school students.
- Contributed to whole-school initiatives and collaborative team planning.
Education
Professional Development
Diploma of Education -
Wellington Teachers Collage
Wellington, NZ12-1997
Bachelor of Nursing -
Wellington Polytechnic
Wellington, NZ12-1996
Skills
- Strategic Leadership & Management: School-wide Strategic Planning & Implementation, Annual Plan Development, Staff Appraisal, Data Analysis & Reporting (BoT), Change Management
- Educational Leadership: Curriculum Development, Pedagogical Coaching, Differentiated Instruction, Student Progressions (New Entrants - Year 6), Te Reo and Te Ao Maori Development
- Special Educational Needs Coordination (SENCO): ORS Programme Leadership, Neuro-diversity Planning, IEP Development, Advocacy for Special Needs, Facilitating Support Applications (RTLB, SLT, AT, etc), Teacher Aide Mentoring
- Literacy Specialisation: Expert in Structured Literacy Approaches, Delivering Tier 3 Interventions, Facilitating Tier 2 Programmes, Formative & Summative Assessment
- Mentorship & Collaboration: Beginning Teacher Mentoring, Collaborative Practice, Team Leadership, Building Positive Relationships (Staff, Families, Students)
- Community & Transition: Designed & Led Transition to School Programmes (eg, Mutakaroa), Cluster Group Facilitation (ECE & Primary Schools)
Timeline
Deputy Principal/SENCO
Fernlea Primary School
01.2016 - Current
Assistant Principal & New Entrant Teacher (Junior
Fernlea Primary School
01.2010 - 12.2015
New Entrant Teacher
Fernlea Primary School
01.2007 - 12.2010
Scale A Junior School Teacher
Normandale Primary School
01.1998 - 12.2006
Professional Development
Diploma of Education -
Wellington Teachers Collage
Bachelor of Nursing -
Wellington Polytechnic
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