Prior to joining the Ministry of Education in 2019, Deidre was principal of a large primary school in South East Auckland. Starting her teaching career in the early 80’s, Deidre has taught and held senior leadership positions in a number of schools in Auckland and London. She has participated in numerous education research and working groups, advisory groups in the areas of wellbeing, curriculum and assessment development, and in the area of leadership development.

During her time as Principal, Deidre was president of the Howick and Pakuranga Principals’ Association, the Auckland Primary Principals’ Association, and an executive of the New Zealand Principals’ Association. 

Profile updated on 19 January 2022