I am 51 years old, married to Jan and we have two daughters who are studying at Otago University.  I am a very keen sportsman who has played representative cricket and hockey, but with age I have turned to cycling and golf.

My teaching career began in Auckland where I taught Physical Education and Economics.  After spells at three schools in Auckland and time teaching in England, we moved to Cambridge where I was Deputy Principal.

I was appointed as Principal of Katikati College, a rural Year 7-13 school, in 2000 and spent 10 years at the College.  In that time the school underwent a $6 million building programme, became a lead ICT school and was regarded as a high performer.

At the end of 2009 I resigned, believing it was time for change and new challenge for both me and the school.  I spent five months working as Interim Principal at Whakatane High School and then spent the rest of 2010 doing work as an educational consultant.

During that time I realised how much I missed the daily interaction of being Principal, so I looked for a school that I could contribute to.  I was fortunate to be appointed to Onslow and feel privileged to be working in our school.

My first impressions have been very positive.  Staff who are among the most committed and professional people I have worked with, students who enjoy their school and are prepared to take responsibility for their learning, and a community that values and supports education.  What wonderful ingredients for success.

It is an exciting time for us as a school and we are aware of some things to work on, but the school is in very good heart and I can confidently say we are doing everything we can to ensure success for our students.

I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible over the next few weeks.

Peter Leggat

Principal