Our Principal

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Kia Ora Koutou,

My name is Siobhan Murphy and since the beginning of term 1 of 2026 I have had the incredible privilege of being the Hampden School Tumuaki/Principal after working here since 2021 as the junior room teacher. 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, whānau and community.

Hampden School is a beautiful school with so much history in an expanding community. Our School values meaningful learning in all areas and effectively supports each child to reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom. We are fortunate to have a close association with the Moeraki Marae and are the Tangata Whenua school for the Marae for which we are extremely proud.

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. The positive of a small rural school is also the extra opportunities for all children to learn from and support each other such as buddy times, whānau group times, termly school sporting events and lots more. Learning outside the classroom is also a vital component of quality education for all pupils. We cater for this as often as possible through class trips and camps. 

Our roll currently sits at 32 and we have 3 teachers on staff. We are well supported by our teacher aide, an executive officer and the school is very well resourced. We currently have 2 lovely classrooms. 

I like to think that I am an enthusiastic, calm, caring leader that is able to support and create positive and safe learning environments for our students to thrive. I am an effective communicator, organised, and have clear expectations. I value the diverse needs and backgrounds of Hampden school. I love a challenge and know that I will always put my best foot forward as our students deserve nothing less. 

I think relationships are paramount to the success of a school and I am always here to have a chat about our incredible School and what we have to offer

Kā mihi nui, 

Siobhan