Our People

We have a progressive, forward-thinking school because of the exceptional talents of our teaching team and support staff.

The Kristin name attracts a very high calibre of staff and we ensure we select candidates who inspire outstanding academic achievement and encourage a breadth of learning through co-curricular activities and serving our community.

MARK WILSON

Executive Principal
MEd(Hons), PGDip Sch. Mngt, BSocSc, BEd, DipTch.

Mark Wilson has been Kristin Schools Executive Principal since 2019. Mark brings to our community exceptional experience in education and leadership, with an esteemed commitment to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

In recognition of his achievements, Mark was awarded a prestigious Woolf Fisher Fellowship in 2018. His progressive outlook, vision and values align perfectly with those of Kristin School, and we look forward to Mark being a champion in the next exciting chapter of Kristin’s future.

"In Kristin I see a school that genuinely delivers on providing a holistic education, developing both the intellect and character of our students. The key factor in how this is achieved, is through our commitment to supporting the professional growth of our wonderful staff."

DAVID BOARDMAN

Senior School Principal
MBA (Dist), Bsc (Hons), PGCE MIBiol CBiol

David joined Kristin in January 2016 as Senior School Principal. His passions lie in the importance of strong positive relationships, international curriculum development and helping students build resilience.

David originates from Shropshire, on the North Wales border and has taught in both the UK state and independent sectors, holding leadership roles at Malvern College, a leading co-educational IB boarding school. He and his family moved to Dunedin in 2007, where he was Deputy Principal and IB DP Coordinator at John McGlashan College.

David has been involved with the International Baccalaureate Organisation for nearly 20 years, initially as a teacher, senior examiner and senior moderator in biology and chemistry. Currently, he Chairs both the NZ IB Heads Caucus and IB Schools Australasia. Prior to this he was a member of the Heads Council (2019-2021)

In 2018, David was awarded an ISNZ HISST Scholarship enabling him to compare assessment-based anxiety in students from New Zealand with those in the UK, Switzerland and The Netherlands.

KATE POLLARD

Middle School Principal
MEdLd, BEd

Kate joined Kristin as Middle School Principal in 2023.

An advocate for independent education, Kate places strong emphasis on achieving exceptional educational outcomes in a nurturing environment that enhances student wellbeing. Kate is passionate about delivering a personalised education that suits the individual needs of each student.

She also values the importance of community and connection, placing emphasis on building lasting relationships with students, staff and families.

Kate joined us from Principal of Chilton St James, a leading independent girls’ school in Wellington, where she was Principal. She is a familiar face having previously worked in the Middle School for 17 years, which included 11 years as Assistant Principal. She has recently completed a Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Auckland.

JAYNE DE LA HAYE

Junior School Principal
BSc (Hons), PGCE, MSc

Jayne has taught and worked in many Early Learning Centres, primary and intermediate schools across the world throughout her career. Jayne is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in teaching young children and is very well versed in the International Baccalaureate's Primary Years Programme. She is known for her kind and caring nature and very good sense of humour.

“I joined Kristin because I believe my own personal values are well aligned and I am a true advocate of fostering excellent teaching and learning practices to optimise the development of both my team and our students."

NIGEL WILKINSON

Director of Business Services
BCom, CA

Nigel oversees many areas of the school including finance, information technology, property, grounds, food and facilities and was instrumental in the planning, building and opening our our new Little Doves Early Learning Centre. While exceptional at balancing the books, to most people's surprise, Nigel also has a great sense of humour and enjoys a positive working relationship with all staff.

“I am committed to ensuring we provide a great learning environment for students and that our grounds and facilities support the activities of our wider school community. The school has developed incredibly well from its early beginnings and we want to build on that as the stewards for future generations of students.”

REBECCA ISTED

Director of Human Resources
BCom

Kristin welcomed Rebecca (Bex) in 2015 into the newly created role of Director of Human Resources. Her role is to attract, engage and develop the best people to deliver high quality outcomes for the Kristin community.

“I welcome the opportunity to share information about working here at Kristin. A place to grow and thrive".