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.