Helena Barwick

For the past 20 years Helena has been working in the education sector predominantly as an independent statutory appointee (commissioner or statutory manager) in schools in crisis or with intractable problems. The role involves a thorough assessment of the issues followed by preparing and implementing a plan to address the issues. Taking others with you on this journey is essential. As well, she has supported and coached boards in their governance responsibilities, reviewed areas of schools’ operations and investigated complaints.

Forming positive and purposeful relationships with all stakeholders is a priority for Helena. Being clear about her role in the situation and working to understand others’ roles and perspectives is where she starts. Often appointed into situations where people feel frustrated and demoralised and where change is needed, Helena tries to bring energy and positivity to the situation and to convey a sense that all those involved can work from where they are to where they need to be – and that she is there to guide and support the work. Although Helena works in situations that are often fraught, she does her very best to operate in a way that is mana-enhancing for all concerned.

For Helena, the most rewarding aspect of what she does is that when appointed into a school many of those involved don’t welcome the statutory intervention and are sceptical that anyone be able to help in their situation. When the time comes for the statutory intervention to be lifted, and for Helena to leave, in many cases the same people are reluctant for her to go. Bringing about change, building capability and bolstering the confidence of those in the organisation to maintain progress is what she finds satisfying.

Since 2013 Helena has been very involved with developing and delivering professional development to the around 100 self-employed, statutory appointees spread around the country working in isolation. Planning the support and training that is needed for this role has been excellent professional development for her.

More personal highlights include watching her own children grow into fine adults, recently becoming a grandmother, and walking her big dog in the wonderful bush tracks around Wellington.