It is with great pride that we announce that John Lockyer has been recognised with an Independent Schools of New Zealand Honours Award for Services to Education, which he received at the ISNZ Annual Conference Gala Dinner over the weekend. 

 

Having joined Kristin's staff in 1993, John was nominated for his exceptional 33-year tenure, during which he has transitioned from a classroom teacher and International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator to his current vital roles as an Enrichment Teacher and ESOL Coordinator.

 

John's legacy at Kristin is defined by his multifaceted impact on school culture and student outcomes, including enduring mentorship, championing biculturalism and inclusion, empowering reluctant young writers, innovation and school spirit. 

 

John (right) pictured with fellow staff members at Kristin in 1995

 

“John is a quintessential role model who seamlessly blends his professional expertise as a prolific author of over 300 titles with a deep-seated passion for primary education. John’s nomination recognises a lifetime of ‘quiet leadership’ that provides profound wisdom and expertise to both colleagues and students, consistently delivering high-quality contributions that surpass the standard expectations of his role,” says Jayne de la Haye, Kristin Principal of Junior School and Early Learning.

 

John’s commitment to excellence is demonstrated through a standard of service that consistently prioritises the student experience and the professional wellbeing of his colleagues. He goes above and beyond his formal requirements by providing dedicated before-school ESOL support sessions, ensuring that English language learners receive the targeted assistance and confidence-building they need to succeed in their daily learning. His colleagues consistently speak of his humility, professionalism and unwavering commitment to students.

 

“John is a consummate professional in his deportment and demeanor, investing hours into his students to prepare them for their future academic life. It is a privilege to work with such a dedicated, respected and loved teacher,” says Jennifer Castel, English Teacher, Kristin School. 

 

As a profound role model for young writers, his influence extends across the school; he not only inspires Junior School students but also mentors older students to refine their craft and maintain their passion for self-expression. His excellence is further reflected in his active engagement with the school's social fabric, including his enthusiastic participation in the staff relay team at the annual swimming sports, which fosters a strong sense of community spirit.

 

John pictured with Joey Li (Class of 2024) - more to this story here

 

Within his collaborative team, John is revered for the wisdom and experience he has gathered over his three decades at Kristin. He remains at the forefront of pedagogical innovation by staying abreast of the latest technology, including leading digital literacy and Minecraft education projects. Most significantly, his colleagues value his light-hearted and positive take on things, which consistently lifts the mood of collaborative work and reinforces a culture of inclusion and high expectations.

 

A prolific author of more than 300 published titles, John brings deep literacy expertise into the classroom, inspiring reluctant writers and nurturing confident, expressive young readers. His works are read by young people all over the world, and he has been a finalist for the Elsie Locke Award (The Kea, 2002) and the NZ Post Children’s Book Awards (Willie Apiata VC, 2010), as well as receiving a Booksellers Gold Award for A History of New Zealand, to name a few. 

 

“For 20 years, we have had the great pleasure of working with John to get his stories published and into the hands of children and teachers. We sell John’s books throughout the USA, Canada, Australia, China, Korea, Japan, and of course, Aotearoa New Zealand. He is a true storyteller, a weaver of facts and an outstanding contributor to children’s literacy around the world.” Rachel Walker, Publisher, Flying Start Books Ltd. 

 

Kristin is incredibly proud of John’s achievements and the remarkable legacy he continues to leave on many members of our Kristin community, including both staff and students. This ISNZ Honours Award recognition is incredibly well deserved.

 

Whakamihi (congratulations), John Lockyer.