MEDIA RELEASE
4 July 2006 – for immediate release

COMET Principal for a Day Important Connection For Business and Schools

The City of Manukau Education Trust (COMET) Principal for a Day (PFAD) programme held in liaison with Manukau City Council is scheduled for Thursday 24 August 2006. Sir Barry Curtis, Mayor of Manukau City has stated:

Principal for a Day is a great idea. In Manukau we have too many young people leaving school with low skills, no work experience or any idea of what is expected by employers. They can't get a job, yet many companies have vacancies that can't be filled.

The skills gap won't be solved overnight because the causes are complex. But "Principal for a Day" helps to forge strong connections between schools and the business sector.

The "temporary principals" pass on their knowledge and skills and give pupils a different perspective. Everything that helps young people gain access to the workforce has to be a good thing.

Bernardine Vester, CEO for COMET is delighted that already over 60 Manukau primary and secondary schools and over 50 leaders in the business community have signed up for this fifth event that will continue to strengthen relationships between Manukau schools, the community and business leaders.

Murray Jackson Chief Executive Genesis Energy is participating for the first time and has commented : After 20 years in management in various parts of the energy industry, I have always pondered the thought that others may organise their time and resources differently to my industry. The questions that come to mind: Do they have a strategic plan, objectives, key performance targets and feedback sessions and how does the principal maintain the excitement that makes teachers and pupils want to come back tomorrow.

For Viki Lawrence Principal Reremoana School this will be the first time she has been involved in PFAD and she has commented: As the Principal of a newly established school in Wattle Downs I am thrilled with the opportunity to be part of Comet’s annual Principal for a Day event. The day has the potential to be great fun for all involved. Our core business may differ, but similar principles of leadership and management apply across all organisations.

The PFAD initiative attracts a variety of business people from a diverse range of backgrounds but they all participate with the common motivation of being interested in the development of Manukau schools.

To find out more about PFAD, or to register, visit : www.pfad.org.nz or contact Jo Howse Manager School/ Business Relations ph: 021 673 579 or email jhowse@manukau.ac.nz

ENDS

CITY OF MANUKAU EDUCATION TRUST – 2004 Education Trust of the Year

To find out more about COMET visit their website at www.comet.org.nz

The Principal For a Day event is proudly supported by Manukau City Council, Manukau Institute of Technology, ASB, Distinction Furniture.

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