Henderson Intermediate

Bruce Dale

Principal, Henderson Intermediate

Bruce grew up in Matamata and studied at Waikato University for his teaching diploma and degree. His first school was St Peter’s School, Cambridge and then it was home to Matamata Intermediate for twelve months. Staying in the Waikato, Bruce’s next school for eleven years was Te Awamutu College where he worked his way into a position of responsibility. With a passion for social studies, geography and sociology Bruce’s next move was to Forest View School in Tokoroa and then to Taumaranui High School as assistant principal. Independently of these moves Bruce has always had enthusiasm for Christian youth ministry and after appropriate study he became the Anglican Church’s Youth Chaplain which he fitted around his teaching commitments. The more senior the position the more his ministry was restricted although even when he moved to Waitakere College as deputy principal in 1995 (“Wonderful years – I worked with Ray Clark.”) he remained an Anglican priest. In 1997 Bruce was appointed Principal of Te Kuiti High School, a role he held until he returned to the West in May 2003, to take up the role he now holds. Bruce has seen many changes in education in New Zealand. He has equally travelled extensively so he’s integrated the things that make good schools great! “We’re committed to people learning in their own styles. One of the advantages of NCEA is that it allows people to have success for what they have achieved. I am impressed with the development of the arts over the years – more drama, more dance and things like journalism courses, etc, and the impact of ICT, and applying it as an incredibly important tool. “I’m passionate about lifelong learning and I’m fortunate that my staff is too. And making learning fun – it has to be enjoyable!” Bruce was president of the Waitakere Area Principals Association in 2006.