Kāpiti College stands by selection of three male head students

Parents and students at Kāpiti College have expressed concern after three boys were selected as Heads of Kura for 2027. The three students, who are all members of the school's first XV rugby team, were announced at a recent senior prizegiving. While the wider student leadership team includes both boys and girls, the top roles lack female representation.

Principal David Lowe defended the decision, stating that appointments are based on merit, leadership capability, and service rather than gender quotas. He noted that the school's leadership representation shifts naturally, pointing out that two female heads were appointed in 2024. Lowe also mentioned that female students hold more positions across other senior leadership captaincies, such as the all-female hauora team.

The selection process involved student nominations, staff endorsements, scenario workshops, pastoral reviews, and formal interviews. A panel consisting of current head students, senior leadership, and middle leaders evaluated candidates based on teamwork, academic balance, and living of Parihaka Mai Ai.

In response to the feedback, the school has indicated it will offer the community an opportunity to review the selection model before the 2028 process. This review may include discussing whether to revisit gender-defined roles.

Where reports differ

• One report specifies the selection process included a leadership task evening for practical problem-solving, while others list scenario workshops

Compiled from reports by Stuff, NZ Herald, 1News and Otago Daily Times.