Kia ora parents, caregivers, whānau,
What Does a Board Member Do?
At St Joseph’s, our School Board plays a crucial role in ensuring our school continues to thrive. The Board is responsible for the governance of the school — this includes setting the school’s strategic direction, ensuring sound financial management, supporting the Principal and the Tui team, overseeing health and safety, and overseeing policy and compliance. Board members work collectively to uphold our Special Catholic Character and ensure that every student can achieve their potential, as well as continuing to love God, love learning, and be the best they can be. There is further information about what a school board does on the Ministry of Education website here.
How much time does it take up?
Board members attend regular Board meetings (2 per term, 8 per year) and additionally are expected to participate in working groups as needed. Preparation for meetings (reading papers, staying informed) is also an important part of the role. Attendance at school events such as school Mass is also encouraged.
Makeup of the Board
St Joseph’s School Board is made up of:
– Parent representatives: 5 parent representatives are elected by the community
– Proprietor’s representatives: 4 appointed by the Proprietor, through Monsignor David
– Staff representative: 1 staff representative elected by the school staff
– Principal
How to Apply
To become a candidate, you must complete a nomination form at this link, which was also included in the Principal’s Message on Friday. This is the best way to apply, but there are paper nomination forms also available from the school office. You do not need specific experience in education — just a willingness to contribute, learn, and work positively and collaboratively for the good of the school. However, we are especially keen to receive nominations from individuals with experience in communications, finance, change management, policy development, strategic planning, property, governance, risk management, and health and safety, and we strongly encourage nominations from individuals who reflect the cultural diversity of our school community.
Election Process
The election follows a formal process managed by an independent Returning Officer. Key dates for this are as follows:
– Call for nominations – Friday 18 July, 2025
– Submission of nomination forms- closes at 12 pm, Wednesday 6 August, 2025
– Voting period (if required) – from Wednesday, 13 August to 4.00 pm Wednesday, 10 September, 2025
– Announcement of elected Board members – Tuesday, 16 September 2025
Being a School Board member is a rewarding way to contribute to the life of the school and help shape the future of our students. If you’re passionate about education, leadership, and community service, we encourage you to consider this opportunity. If you would like to attend an upcoming Board meeting, or if you have any questions or would like to speak to a current board member about the role, please feel free to get in touch.
Ngā mihi nui,
Kristen Waters
Presiding Member, St Joseph’s Catholic School