Paul McKinley arrived at Mount Albert Grammar School 11 years ago to a brief that reads quickly on paper – help raise standards across the board.
In reality it was a huge undertaking by former Headmaster Dale Burden, who brought in his former colleague to help drive the development of culture and raise academic achievement in a school that was struggling to attract students from its own community.
As Paul McKinley prepares to leave MAGS for a new role as Principal of Glenfield College, he looks back with satisfaction that he helped to meet all those challenges, “and bring MAGS back to where it has stood historically – as one of the top academic schools in the country, and the school of choice for our local families.”
The foundation of that change was enhancing the school’s culture. “There was always MAGS pride, but now there is self-belief in meeting the high expectations we set of students.
Systems were introduced to academically track every student, analyse their results and implement plans to help those who struggled or extend those who excelled. Emphasis was placed on hiring the best teachers available, and providing ongoing professional development.
“MAGS has always been known as a great sporting school, but I’m very proud that we’re now referred to as a top academic school first and foremost.”
One of Mr McKinley’s key roles has been overseeing the Junior school, and he counts one of his biggest successes as reviewing the Junior school programme, which included moving away from ‘archaic’ streaming to a model that still gives the most capable students an environment to challenge them, while offering all students the motivation to reach higher.
His farewell speech to the school this week was an emotional event, as students presented gifts and songs, and Mr McKinley gave a speech recounting some of his memories of his time here. He was given a standing ovation as he left the stage for the last time.
He says his best memories will be of the people he’s worked with, both staff and students. Getting to know student Sally Ainley and her family after she was diagnosed with cancer, and being asked to speak at her funeral after she passed away in 2010, holds a special place.
Now he is looking forward to a new challenge as he steps up to be the Principal of his own school.
“I’m a big believer in getting out of your comfort zone and moving forward, and leaving a place with many good memories. I’ve been humbled by the number of families who have contacted me to say congratulations and thank you. It’s been a privilege to be part of MAGS’ journey.”