Larger school beckons principal

Iva Ropati has focused on instilling a feeling of pride in One Tree Hill College students. Photo / Supplied

It's a big step from playing professional rugby league to leading an Auckland high school, but Iva Ropati has managed it with apparent ease.

The 42-year-old principal of One Tree Hill College has resigned to take up the equivalent role at Howick College.

That in itself is another big step - One Tree Hill College has about 750 students, Howick has closer to 1850. His new position is effective from January 18.

Mr Ropati has been at One Tree Hill College, formerly Penrose High School, for the past seven years. His main achievement, he says, has been to instil a feeling of pride in his students; pride in themselves, their achievements and their school.

"My time at St Kentigern College showed me the difference that having high expectations can make. And I thought, if it's good enough for private-school students, it's good enough for a state school.

"We don't just have a few tall poppies, we have a field of them."

Board of trustees chairman Garth Biggs said that the college's past three Education Review Office reports illustrated the success of Mr Ropati's principalship, noting "remarkable progress" and an "inspirational transformation".

This, Mr Biggs said, was coupled with a growing college roll, improved NCEA results and notable sporting and cultural achievements.

"The board was delighted that Mr Ropati has the opportunity to continue his professional growth in an environment that will offer him new challenges and new learnings. He will be greatly missed but we wish him well."

Mr Ropati trained as a teacher in Auckland before heading into a league career that included stints with Otahuhu and Te Atatu, Sheffield and Oldham in Britain, the Kiwis, Parramatta and the Warriors. He spent time at Lynfield College and St Kentigern before the posting to One Tree Hill College.

This year, he received a Sir Peter Blake leadership award, in recognition of his leadership skills and potential.

The current principal of Howick College, Bill Dimery, has resigned after a period of ill health.

Nick Coughlan, Mr Ropati's deputy responsible for operations, will be acting principal of One Tree Hill College until a permanent head is appointed.

Mr Biggs hopes this will be possible by the start of the second term next year, but said this might not be possible.

"We recognise that a good outcome is more important than a rapid outcome".