School Board Election 2025

Smitha Renjit

Kia ora,

My name is Smitha, and I am a proud parent of Geethanjali Renjith currently attending Edgewater College . I am putting myself forward to serve as a parent representative on the board of trustees because I care deeply about our children’s education, health and wellbeing, and future.

I believe in the importance of strong support and partnerships between families, staff, and the wider school community. As a parent, I’ve always been actively involved in supporting the children’s development and school activities, and I would like to take the next step by contributing to strategic decisions that shape our school’s direction.

I bring a background in Finance and Statistics and I have excellent communication skills. I have recently volunteered as an area coordinator for Pink Ribbon street appeal. Together with these skills, I’m committed to being a voice for all families. I will listen openly, represent fairly, and work collaboratively to support the school’s goals.

I believe every child deserves a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment to grow and succeed.

Thank you for considering my nomination

Nga mihi,

Audrey Afamasaga

My name is Audrey Afamasaga and I work as an Attendance Officer at Pakuranga Intermediate School. I am a proud mum to four children and a nephew whom I’ve raised since birth. I’m also a dedicated rugby mum, music mum, army cadets mum and a proud autism mum.

My connection with Edgewater College began in 2013 when my nephew started as a Year 9 student. He recently graduated from Media Design School in April. Currently, my two older children are enrolled at Edgewater College in Year 10 and Year 12.

My involvement with the school spans over 12 years, and I’ve truly enjoyed being a part of this wonderful community. I believe I will bring a strong mix of knowledge, experience, and fresh ideas to help create meaningful opportunities for our students.

Tony Shirley

Are you concerned about the upcoming changes to NCEA and the impact of AI on our children’s future careers? I certainly am, and I want to help make a positive difference.

My name is Tony Shirley, and I’m currently a member of the Board of Trustees at Pakuranga Intermediate, where my twins are studying. My oldest daughter is at Edgewater College, and by 2026, all three of my daughters will be attending Edgewater. I’m passionate about supporting the school and would be honoured to serve on the Board of Trustees for the duration of their time there.

I’ve lived in Pakuranga most of my life and am proud to be an Edgewater College old boy. I attended in the 80s, played tight-head prop in the First XV, was the "bad guy" in the school production, and completed Year 13 (the "7th Form" back then).

I hold a Master of Commerce (MCom) in Management and Organisational Psychology from Auckland University. Over the years, I’ve built and run a successful graphics company, organised gaming conventions, had a side hustle building computers and worked in the Ministry of Justice for over 25 years, including roles as a Bailiff and Manager.

In my role on any team, I’m known for asking tough questions, testing assumptions, and driving change with a unified purpose - paddling the waka in the same direction. I believe in leading by example and providing opportunities for everyone to succeed, ensuring no one is left behind.

My focus on the Board would be centred around Excellence—particularly in STEM, Sports, and the Performing Arts. The changes coming to NCEA will have a significant impact on our students, and we need to act swiftly and effectively. I’m especially passionate about the future of STEM, particularly AI, which will play a pivotal role inshaping our kids' future careers. At the same time,

I’ve been really impressed with the Performing Arts and Cultural programs at Edgewater and would love to support and expand these initiatives, alongside other projects that inspire both students and staff.

Thank you for taking the time to read my statement. If you allow me the privilege of serving on the Edgewater College Board of Trustees, I look forward to guiding the school through these exciting, yet challenging, changes in NCEA and AI over the next five years. If I am successful, this would fulfil a missed opportunity, as I missed out in 1989!

Jonathan Scanlan

Kia Ora, Edgewater College Community,

I am looking to stand again for re-election as a parent-elected trustee for a fourth term on the Board of Trustees. As the current Vice presiding member, I have had the privilege of serving this community of learning for the past 3 terms of 7 years, and with your support, I am eager to continue my journey with a fourth term.

With four children having passed through the school, and my youngest currently starting Year 9, I have a deep understanding of the school’s values and the needs of our students and families.As a current Trustee, I am passionate about empowering our all our students and Tamariki to achieve their very best.

I believe that by working collaboratively with fellow board members, staff, and the wider community, we can help to look at ways to help create and sustain an environment where every student thrives. My experience and dedication to the board’s strategic direction have equipped me to make informed decisions that benefit our school.

I am committed to the mantra “Better Together,” and I believe that our collective efforts will continue to help assist and drive positive outcomes for our students. I would be honoured to continue serving Edgewater College and contributing to the board’s vision for a bright future.

I look forward to your support and vote for a fourth term as a parent elected trustee.

Ngā mihi nui,

Jonathan Scanlan

Hayley Newton

Kia ora Koutou Katoa! I’m Hayley.

I have a strong background in education and currently serve as the Presiding Member of the Board of Trustees at Pakuranga Intermediate. This role has given me valuable experience in governance, strategic planning, and supporting student achievement. I’m passionate about helping young people succeed and ensuring schools are inclusive, future-focused spaces.

Personally, I lived in Japan for 10 years, which gave me a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. I enjoy learning te reo Māori and playing squash, and I bring energy, curiosity, and a collaborative approach to everything I do.

I’d be proud to contribute these strengths to the Edgewater College Board.

Amy Broadmore

Kia ora, I’m Amy Broadmore, the current Presiding Member of the Edgewater College School Board. I’ve been involved in school governance for the past seven years and am passionate about the 3MCs – Manaakitanga, Māia, and Manawa Reka. I strongly believe that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed and feel a sense of belonging at school.