Mount Aspiring College (MAC) has announced the appointment of Dr Ian Hall as chair of its board of trustees. 

Ian, who was co-opted yesterday (Tuesday August 4) then voted in as chair, is an experienced educational leader and former chair of new Wanaka primary school Te Kura O Take Karara’s establishment board. 

Ian’s appointment follows a scoping report and outcomes plan released last week (July 30) by limited statutory manager Madeleine Hawkesby.

Related: MAC scoping report identifies issues, reviews

Madeleine’s report identified an immediate need for strategic and focused leadership at the school, and for the trustees to ensure functional working relationships and work together in the best interests of the school.

She was commissioned by the board in early June to complete an analysis of issues at the school, following a critical Education Review Office review last year, the resignation of two members of the board in April as well as long term principal Wayne Bosley’s resignation in May.

Ian Hall PHOTO: Supplied

Last week it was announced the board would co opt an independent experienced chair for a fixed term.

Ian succeeds Ed Nepia, who has held the position for the past three months.

Ian has more than 30 years experience in the education sector including as the principal of Otago Polytechnic. He has also worked within the Department of Education and served as chair on multiple education boards.

“I welcome a further opportunity to be involved in the Wanaka school community and look forward to working closely with all stakeholders of the college. As a board we are at a turning point for change and I am confident we have the skills to do so, and do so with conviction and transparency,” he said.

Ed said the board is lucky to have someone of Ian’s expertise. 

“To have a new chair with such a strong background in school governance is a real asset and I know Ian will bring positive and effective change alongside our trustees moving forward,” he said.

Ed said Ian’s experience will be particularly invaluable during the next two terms as the board has a comprehensive work plan underway.

Acting principal Dean Sheppard also welcomed Ian, and thanked Ed for taking on the “difficult task” of being chair for the past few months. 

“I am delighted to welcome Dr Hall and carry on our progression as an effective and cohesive team with the best interests of our students at the forefront,” Dean said.

Madeleine, who will remain in the role of limited statutory manager (employment and communications), supports the board’s appointment of Ian to the role of chair.