our principal

Kia Ora Koutou katua,

My name is Matt Hannagan and since the beginning of term 4 of 2019 I have the massive privilege of being the Hampden School Tumuaki / Principal. I am proud to represent this school and it is an honour to lead this rich and vibrant Kura. It has a supportive and inclusive collection of students, staff, whanau and community.

Hampden is a dynamic school in an expanding community. Our School loves hands-on, authentic, fun learning but still places importance on learning key fundamental skills; especially in literacy and numeracy. We like to think we put the FUN in fundamentals. We are fortunate to have a close association with the Moeraki Marae and are the Tangata Whenua school for the Marae.

We are part of a rural schools network with close ties to other smaller schools in the district and we often get together to celebrate academic, sporting and cultural events. We also run clubs on Fridays where we encourage experts from the community to come share their skills.Learning outside the classroom is vital for all pupils are we cater for this as often as possible through class trips and camps. 

Our roll currently sits at 43 and we have 3 teachers on staff. We are well supported by teacher aides, an executive officer and the school is well resourced. We currently have 2 classrooms. 

I like to think that I am dynamic, creative and authentic in my teaching approach. I am also energetic and enthusiastic about education. My style of being a principal is about being an effective communicator, being orgainsed, have clear expectations and value the diverse needs and backgrounds of Hampden school. I love a challenge and know that I am fair, honest and reasonable.

I think positive relationships are paramount to the success of a school. I am more than happy to have a discussion with you about an aspect of our curriculum and to share more about what makes Hampden the B.E.S.T school.

Ka mihi nui, Matt