Kia ora koutou.  My name is Sarah Parkinson and I am privileged to be the new Principal of St Mary’s College.  A Wellingtonian, born and bred, I live in Island Bay with my husband and three children.   

In my 20 years in education, I have had many experiences and opportunities which have led me to this role.  I have learnt a lot from the students I had the privilege of teaching and the staff with whom I have worked.  I spent 19 years  at St Patrick’s College in Wellington.  During my time there I was a Religious Education teacher, DRS and Assistant Rector.  Most recently, I have been working at the Ministry of Education where I was part of the Review of Achievement Standards Team working on the development of new Religious Studies Achievement Standards and facilitating the Religious Studies Level 1 Pilot.  

I have been very grateful to the school community for welcoming me so warmly into the College community.  The pōwhiri on Monday to welcome myself and the other staff and students starting was a special occasion that showed the warmth and heart that the St Mary's College community has. 

St Mary’s College is a school close to my heart.  My grandmother, mother, sister and myself all attended St Mary’s.  I greatly enjoyed my time at the college and look forward to supporting other young women to have a positive experience here.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Sarah Parkinson

Principal