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How long have you been an educator, and where did you train? I’ve been teaching in New Zealand schools for over 25 years. I was born, educated, and trained in India. After completing a master’s degree in physics, I trained as a secondary teacher and began teaching in India. After migrating to New Zealand, I continued teaching in secondary schools here. As an educator, I firmly believe in the importance of lifelong learning. My learning journey has continued throughout my teaching career in New Zealand. I’ve completed a master’s degree in educational leadership, a postgraduate certificate in digital and collaborative learning, and a graduate diploma in information systems from AUT, The Mind Lab, and Massey University, respectively. I’m currently enrolled in a certificate in Christian leadership at Carey Baptist College. When did you become principal of Tyndale Park Christian School? I began as principal in January 2022. What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal? The most rewarding aspects of being an educator and principal are seeing students learn, grow, and develop into young people of strong character and faith. What’s special about Tyndale Park Christian School? The key distinctives of Tyndale Park Christian School include small class sizes, a close-knit family environment, and a multicultural community that encourages academic excellence and strong character development. Our biblical worldview reinforces our school motto – “Love God and Love People”. Relationships are strong across all year levels, and our dedicated staff serve in a collegial, purpose-driven team. Many parents choose our school as an alternative to public education because of our traditional teaching and learning methodologies, which are firmly grounded in biblical values. I’m particularly grateful for the board members, staff, and parents for their sacrificial giving of their time, expertise, and money to the cause of Christian education offered by Tyndale. Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector? School-parent partnerships are key to achieving successful outcomes for students. In theory, parents are expected to play the leading role in their children’s learning and development. However, they may not always have the tools or confidence to do so effectively when their children are young. How is the relationship between Tyndale Park Christian School and its immediate local community? We intentionally foster parent engagement. Twice a term, we invite parents to participate in school-community building activities where students, staff, parents, and board members work together. These include our TPCS Science Fair (recently featured in the Eastern Times), as well as various intra-school and inter-school competitions. We offer Mainly Music at Tyndale for parents with toddlers and preschoolers from our immediate local community on Fridays during term time. We’re also involved in the Tyndale Forest Regeneration Programme, where students, staff, and local families participate together to care for God’s creation and strengthen community connections. Can you please explain further the school’s philosophy and environment. Set on park-like grounds surrounded by native bush and generous sports fields in the south-eastern suburb of Flat Bush, Tyndale Park Christian School is a year 1-13 independent Christian school committed to assisting parents in their God-given responsibility to educate their children. For over 40 years, we have offered Bible-based, Christ-centred education that shapes the hearts and minds of young people for faithful Christian living and service. Our size is our strength. As a small, family-friendly school, we offer safe, caring, and multi-year level classrooms where every child is known and valued. Relationships are strong across all year levels, and our dedicated staff serve in a collegial and purpose-driven team.
