In 2026, the Waikato Principals Association (WPA) will lead a delegation to Singapore, marking a decade since 42 principals first visited in 2016. This milestone trip comes at a pivotal time, providing an opportunity to revisit Singapore’s world-leading education system while exploring the new initiatives that are shaping both their practices and our own evolving New Zealand education sector. The delegation will offer principals a rich professional development experience, fostering international relationships and gaining insights into innovative approaches that can inspire and inform our work at home.
The total cost for participating in this study tour is NZD $3,500. This comprehensive fee covers all essential expenses, including round-trip airfares, accommodation for the duration of the trip, scheduled activities, and all necessary ground transportation.
Trip Highlights
Activity | Description |
School Visits | Observe teaching practices and school management in Singaporean schools. |
Professional Development Workshops | Participate in workshops led by Singaporean educational experts. |
Networking Events | Connect with Singaporean principals, educators, and ministry officials to share insights. |
Cultural Immersion | Experience the rich culture and vibrant life of Singapore. |
Why Singapore?
Participation in the Waikato Principals Association Singapore Delegation 2026 represents an exceptional professional learning opportunity. This visit, marking ten years since the original delegation to Singapore in 2016, will allow principals to experience first-hand one of the world’s most highly regarded education systems. Engaging directly with Singaporean educators and seeing their practices in action will provide valuable insights into innovative teaching, leadership, and system-level strategies that are currently influencing global education trends, including those currently shaping our own sector in New Zealand.
The delegation will strengthen international networks, deepen our understanding of future-focused education initiatives, and inspire new thinking to enhance outcomes in our schools. The knowledge and connections gained will have a lasting impact, benefitting not only individual principals but also the communities and learners we serve.
Costs: $3,500NZD
- Return Airfares: $2,000 Return – Principals to book own airfare and travel insurance.
- Recommended Flights Friday 26th June:
- Accommodation, Transfers, Events, Tours, and Professional Development: $1500
- WPA will subsidise participants with dinners, gifts for speakers, buses, and taxis.
- Scholarships x 10 available on application to the WPA President for U1, U2, and U3 Principals
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 Apr 2026
- Trip Dates: 26 Jun 2026 to 3 Jul 2026
Who Should Attend?
This trip is open to all principals who are members of the Waikato Principals Association and are eager to expand their professional horizons, collaborate with international peers, and bring back fresh perspectives to their schools.
Contact Information
For inquiries, please reach out to:
Nathan Leith [email protected]
Geoff Booth [email protected]
Leo Spaans [email protected]
Or register online via the WPA website from 1 September 2025.