Message from Iona Holsted Secretary for Education

The summer holidays are fast approaching and I want to take the opportunity to wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.

Today is my first day on the job as Secretary for Education. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead the Ministry and the education system. I am looking forward to working with you to achieve equity and excellence in outcomes for all learners.

First of all I’d like to thank Katrina Casey for all the work she has done over the past few months. Katrina has done a great job in ensuring the stability in service provided to the sector during some very challenging times. In particular, during the recent earthquakes, she made sure staff were in the right place at the right time to help you all keep staff and students safe.

Thanks for all the work you do, whether in the classroom or in the community. It all makes a real difference to the lives of our children and young people.

2017 will no doubt be another busy year that comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. I am confident that we will continue to work together to help our young people achieve.

I hope that you all enjoy the holidays with friends and loved ones – you deserve it. I look forward to working with you all in the year ahead.

Ngā mihi,

Iona