In this episode, we get into the planning and preparation required to successfully launch a new school year. As the end of the summer holidays nears, principals across Aotearoa will be orchestrating one of the most critical periods in the school calendar - ensuring everything is ready for students and staff to return to a well-prepared and welcoming learning environment. Our guests share practical insights into the multi-layered preparation process, from managing staff recruitment and timetabling through to facility maintenance, technology readiness, and establishing the right culture and tone for the year ahead. Hosted by Eleisha McNeill. Today’s guests are: Jason Miles, tumuaki of Kaiapoi North School and Vice President of NZPF Rohan Pearse, tumuaki of Frimley School Dawn Akroyd, principal of Napier Girls’ High School. This podcast was produced for the Ministry of Education.   You can learn more by accessing the e-learning modules for principals on the Education LMS: https://training.education.govt.nz