Rachel Denee
2025: Dr Rachel Denee of Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington will investigate how we can improve early childhood education
In their New Zealand Mana Tūāpapa Future Leader Fellowship Dr Rachel Denee will interview experts in early childhood education about their pedagogical leadership – or leadership practices focused on improving teaching, learning, and relationships.
Dr Denee will investigate how pedagogical leadership is understood and implemented in early education in both Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad. This research will include several case studies in different settings for early childhood education, including community-based, private, and Māori-medium services. Dr Denee will collaborate with kaiako teachers and leaders to develop and test practical interventions to build capability in pedagogical leadership, including in ways that reflect Te Tiriti o Waitangi and kaupapa Māori perspectives. Having identified patterns, contextual contrasts, and shared principles for effective pedagogical leadership, these findings will be published, and resources for educators and leaders will be created.
Credit: Daisies Early Education & Care Centre, Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington.