Lois Eaton has stepped up to the plate to take on an acting principal role at Hampstead Primary School.
She is in the position for the remainder of the year and is relishing the challenge.
‘‘There is so much to be proud of at Hampstead School. All of our staff care deeply about our tamariki and are committed to supporting them to be their very best,” she said.
Stepping into the role at the end of 2025 as principal Claudine Campbell took leave, Eaton said she finds it both exciting and rewarding.
‘‘I really enjoy being part of the Hampstead community. We have so much to offer our children, and there is a real sense of pride in continually looking for ways to strengthen and improve what we do for our students and families.”
Eaton admits taking on the head position has not been without its challenges, but on the flip side she said no two days are the same and she now has a greater appreciation of the teamwork, relationships and care that go into creating a positive school environment.
‘‘Many staff members have willingly taken on additional responsibilities along the way, which has allowed me the time needed to focus on the principal role.”
Looking further ahead Eaton said one of her goals is to continue strengthening the school culture and values.
In term two, Eaton and her team began the school’s Positive Behaviour for Leaning (PB4L) journey.
“So the students feel a real sense of belonging and pride in their school,” she said.
On cross country day the wider school community looked at the current school values and voted on their importance.That feedback is now being worked through.
‘‘We are refreshing and updating our values so that they reflect our school and are easy for our children to remember.”
Eaton began teaching in 1996 at Rakaia Primary School and since then she has taught at a number of Mid Canterbury primary schools before her association with Hampstead Primary began in earnest.
‘‘In 2009 and 2010, I worked part-time in release roles before returning to a full-time position midway through 2020,” she said.
2022 saw her move to team leader then on to senior deputy principal in 2024.
