Leadership Profiles – Kay Kendall

 

Kay Kendall is an experienced educational leader driven by a deep
commitment to service, community, and transformative learning.
Growing up in Waiuku, leadership was modelled early—her father
serving as Mayor for over two decades, and her mother as a
dedicated educator. Both were honoured with Queen’s Service
Medals, and both instilled in Kay a foundational belief in
service-oriented leadership.

 

 

Kay’s leadership journey began informally during her teenage years through sports, where she captained and coached hockey teams in the Counties region. These early responsibilities
nurtured her confidence and shaped her understanding of leadership as both responsibility and relational influence.

For many years, Kay intentionally chose to lead from behind, excelling as a second-in-command while prioritising family, teaching, and continued study. In 2017, she stepped into formal leadership as Deputy Principal and SENCO at View Road School, marking a significant evolution in her professional growth. This role catalysed new learning, challenges, and a deepening of her leadership identity, including a lengthy time as Acting Principal.

At the heart of Kay’s leadership philosophy is a commitment to equity and collective growth. She believes her own blessings—in education, experiences, and relationships—are resources to be
shared. Her vision centres on collaborative leadership: learning alongside others, synthesising diverse perspectives, and driving meaningful action for the benefit of all ākonga. Mentorship and coaching are core to Kay’s leadership practice. Where she once led by guiding and instructing, she now facilitates shared learning, communal problem-solving, and capacity-building. She views coaching as an investment in the future of education, championing the development of emerging leaders and excellence in practice.

Kay has led substantial change in two key areas. First, she played a pivotal role in transforming her school into a trauma-informed learning environment. This work—initially guided by a Ministry of Health psychologist—shifted the culture from compassionate intent to expert, evidence-based practice. It included the provision of targeted professional development across the community, particularly in areas such as ADHD, ASD, and FASD. Second, Kay has led the implementation of the new Maths Curriculum at View Road School, a change that required not only resourcing and training, but also a significant shift in pedagogical approach. Her leadership in both areas demonstrates her ability to lead systemic, sustainable change grounded in research and real-world impact.

Kay’s personal wellbeing philosophy is built on balance and sustainability. She prioritises family, ensures space for personal passions, and values reciprocal professional relationships that foster empathy, resilience, and wairua in the workplace. Her work ethic is matched by a deep care for others and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the shared mission of education.

Looking ahead, Kay’s focus is on refining her coaching practice and continuing to learn from and alongside others. She aspires to be a leader who both inspires and is inspired—offering her wisdom generously while staying open to the fresh ideas and energy of emerging educators.