Nau mai, haere mai ki Aotea College

Ko Tararua te maunga Ko Mangahao te awa Ahakoa nō Eketāhuna ahau, Kei te noho ahau ki Ōhau. Ko Jason White tōku ingoa.

It is a privilege to introduce myself as the Tumuaki | Principal of Aotea College. I join this vibrant community with a deep respect for the school’s history and a firm commitment to its future. Aotea College is known for its “close to home” heart—a place where connection and belonging are not just words, but the foundation of how we learn.

I believe that education is most powerful when it is inclusive. My recent years as Principal of the Central Regional Health School solidified my passion for equity. Having worked closely with tamariki facing significant adversity, I bring a focus on inclusive practices that ensure every student, regardless of their starting point, can access excellence.

Excellence at Aotea College isn’t just about academic results; it is about high expectations in the arts, culture, on the sports field, and in how we serve our community. We are fortunate to learn within a modern campus designed for the 21st century. Our flexible spaces and specialist facilities support a curriculum that is both innovative and rigorous, preparing our students to be “future-ready” citizens in an ever-changing world.

I believe that learning and wellbeing are inextricably linked. My background has taught me that when we prioritise hauora – nurturing the social, emotional, and physical health of our tamariki – we create the environment necessary for academic success. My goal is to work alongside our highly skilled staff to ensure Aotea remains a school where every student can thrive.

The strength of Aotea College lies in its partnerships. I am committed to honouring and strengthening our relationships with Ngāti Toa Rangatira, our Pasifika community, and the wider Porirua whānau. A secondary school should be an “anchor” for its community, and I look forward to meeting the families, coaches, and past students who make this school so special.

Our school values – Manaakitanga, Sauni, Perseverance, and Excellence – shape everything we do. They are more than words; they are actions that define how we learn, lead, and live together. We encourage every student to be prepared (Sauni), to persevere through challenges, and to strive for excellence while caring for others.

On a personal note, I come to this role with a global perspective, having taught in Palmerston North, Whanganui, Napier, and England, followed by leadership roles at Ruapehu and Horowhenua Colleges. Outside of school, I am a husband to Kelly and a father to Harry, Gemma, and Logan. As a parent myself, I understand the trust you place in us to guide your children through these five vital years of secondary education.

I look forward to working alongside you all as we take Aotea College forward together.

Jason White Tumuaki | Principal

Nau te rourou Naku te rourou Ka ora te manuhiri.

With your food basket and my food basket we will feed the visitors.

He waka kotuia kahore e tukutuku nga mimira.

A canoe that is interlaced will not become separated at the bow.

Taku mana, Taku Manawa, Tu tahi.

Mission

To enable holistic achievement and prepare young people as life-long learners to thrive in diverse local, national and global communities.

Vision

Learners and learning are at the centre of a culture of respect and Manaakitanga.

We work collaboratively to achieve excellence and innovation in teaching and learning.

We grow learning partnerships with whanau and the wider community to support strong learning pathways.

Potential for the growth, learning and development of all students is understood to be fundamental in achieving success across the curriculum and in qualifications.