Peter is a highly capable and experienced teacher, middle leader and senior leader. He has previously been Deputy Principal at Trident High School (Whakatane), Principal at Opunake High School (Taranaki) and most recently Deputy Principal at Melville High School in Hamilton which as been amalgamated with Melville Intermediate to re-open as Mangakōtukutuku College.

Peter has a Masters degree in Educational leadership which has helped inform his leadership practice over many years.

Peter was attracted to the position as he had heard lots of very positive comments about the changes that happened in the 12 months and the direction that Te Aroha College is heading in. In accepting the position Peter commented that “I’m stoked and excited to be part of the Te Aroha team”.

Peter has previously taught Science and Senior Biology and has strengths in developing effective pastoral care systems, the analysis of student data to inform teaching practice and school wide decisions and building really positive relationships with students, staff and communities.

Peter is also a highly regarded international Football referee who has attended two Football World Cups and the 2012 Olympic games. He has been influential nationally and internationally, in the development of Football referees for nearly two decades.

Ms Halford began her teaching journey at Te Aroha College 14 years ago as a beginning teacher. Since then, she has grown into a dynamic and respected leader, taking on key roles such as Dean, SENCO, and Head of Social Sciences. With a wealth of experience behind her, she is now pursuing her Master of Educational Leadership, a step that reflects her commitment to transforming knowledge into meaningful leadership and positive change within the school.

Her passion lies in teaching History and Social Studies, where she finds immense satisfaction in sparking curiosity and critical thinking in her students. “Seeing students light up with enthusiasm for learning is incredibly rewarding,” she shares.

Originally from Gore, Ms Halford has fully embraced the Te Aroha community. A lover of sport, she’s always had a competitive edge, with netball, tennis, squash, and cricket playing a big part in her life. While she’s now more often found cheering from the sidelines, she takes great joy in supporting her two children in their own sporting pursuits.