Catholic principal to lead Teaching Council governing body

By CathNews New Zealand

August 28th, 2026

Patrick Walsh (Sacred Heart College)

The headmaster of Sacred Heart College in Auckland, Patrick Walsh, has been appointed chair of the new Governing Council of the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. Source: Beehive.

The appointment was announced recently by Education Minister Erica Stanford, who said she is confident that the leadership, financial and governance experience of Mr Walsh and deputy chair Andrée Atkinson will provide clear direction over the next three years.

“Having a strong board is vital for responding to the significant challenges faced by the Teaching Council, especially around its core role of ensuring child safety,” Ms Stanford said.

“I am confident the Governing Council now has the collective skills and experience, including knowledge of the sector, to strongly support the enhanced regulatory focus.”

Mr Walsh was a long-term elected member of the Teaching Council before his appointment by Ms Stanford. He has an extensive background in education leadership.

He is vice president of the Auckland Secondary Schools Principals Association, an executive member of the Secondary Principals Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) and is an executive member of College Sport.

FULL STORY

Final appointments to Teaching Council (Beehive)