Claudia Wysocki, Kristin’s second and longest-serving principal from 1978 to 1991, left a lasting legacy that continues to shape our school's identity today. With visionary leadership, Claudia was instrumental in Kristin becoming the first school in New Zealand to introduce the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Additionally, she played a key role in establishing the school’s first Gym, Auditorium and Chapel – facilities that remain central to Kristin’s school life today.  

 

Having spent 17 years as a catholic nun, Claudia brought a unique perspective to her role at Kristin, which, as a school, has always identified as nondenominational in character. While some may have initially questioned her suitability, her extensive teaching experience in New Zealand and Australia, combined with her energy and enthusiasm, quickly demonstrated her value within the fast-growing Kristin community. Claudia joined Kristin’s Albany campus in 1978 as coordinator of the secondary school, and by the final term of that same year, she succeeded Roy Munn as principal, becoming the first woman to hold a principal position at a co-educational independent school. 

 

Although Claudia was deeply committed to academic excellence, she also believed that the greatest gift a school could give its students was self-esteem, rather than good grades. She actively encouraged participation in sports, the arts and personal development. As she guided the school through a period of rapid change and growth, her care and concern for others were evident. Each school report included a personalised comment from her, and every school leaver received an individual testimonial. When interviewing staff, she sought teachers who not only had professional expertise but also shared Kristin’s core values, which are embodied in its motto: Progress with Vision, Integrity and Love. 

 

After navigating Kristin through more than a decade of transformation and seeing the school roll expand from 289 students to just over 1,000, Claudia felt it was time for a change. After 12 years at Kristin, she accepted the position of principal at St. Margaret’s College in Christchurch. In recognition of her inspirational leadership and significant contributions to Kristin’s legacy, Claudia was honoured with the title of principal emerita upon her departure.

 

Claudia passed away in 2012, with a memorial service fittingly held in the Kristin Auditorium, a building she had so enthusiastically championed. Claudia will always be remembered as a devoted educator whose influence played a pivotal role in defining Kristin’s progressive and innovative approach to education.