New head at Fraser soon

Fraser High School could have a new principal in place within weeks, with interviews for the position expected to be held on Friday.

Sir Wira Gardiner – brought in as the school's commissioner in December after Martin Elliott, the school's high-profile principal, stood down amid claims he had misused school funds – said prospective principals should be interviewed on Friday and an appointment made shortly afterwards.

Sir Wira said he hoped a new board of trustees to replace the one that had resigned would be in place by May and he would have completed his work at the school in June.

He said he had expected the worst when he was appointed, but whatever Mr Elliott had done or not done for Fraser High he had chosen good staff. "I found a school that had reacted remarkably well as a consequence of the events of last year, thanks to the leadership of the senior team that he (Elliott) brought together," Sir Wira said.

"The acting principal and the deputy principals were interested in moving past the situation that had occurred and wanted to get on with the job and teach kids."

However, the school would feel some impact. "The investigations last year cost money, which affects the budget for this year." He said making sure the school's results improved was a priority.

- © Fairfax NZ News