My name is Bryce Mills and I am one of the Deputy Principals at Auckland Normal Intermediate School. I have had the privilege of being part of this fantastic team for almost 5 years now and can confidently say that I work with some of the most talented professionals in the country.

My journey started on the east coast of South Africa, in a little town called Durban. As a young person, I spent most weekends either at the beach with my family or on the sports field where I played Hockey and Rugby – my folks had the right idea keeping their sons busy and out of mischief!

Moving to New Zealand when I was 15 was both challenging and exciting – a new chapter in our lives. Finishing my high school qualifications at Long Bay College on the North Shore, I ventured off to complete a Diploma in Science at Auckland University before moving to AUT to complete my Bachelor of Education. Four years later I completed my Masters of Education with a focus on Educational Leadership which I can say has changed and transformed my view of education forever. During the early years of becoming a teacher I spent 12 months teaching at various schools in London which was an incredible experience and one that has shaped who I am as a professional today.

My partner and I live in Mount Roskill with our furry kids, Frankie and Charlie! They are miniature dachshunds and are our service dogs at school. They spend their days with students who sometimes need a break from the classroom environment – they absolutely love school and the kids love them! My partner and I are big foodies and love being outdoors, often venturing off to various walks around the Waitakere ranges with dogs in tow. We have 2 nieces and 1 nephew who keep us very busy.

I am excited about what the future has in store for education in New Zealand. The learnings from working from home with the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 as well as the research from educational leaders such as Valerie Hannon, are helping to challenge norms and expectations of how a school should run. Education is shifting and changing constantly and I am proud to live and work in country that is so open to change! Bring on another exciting year!