Term 1

The impact of Tall Poppy Syndrome is a quiet but significant challenge within many of our schools. This cultural narrative can discourage students and staff from celebrating success, taking positive risks, and stepping into leadership.

Connecting School Leaders is proud to invite you to a session focused on shifting this mindset. We are delighted to host Jay Geldard, co-founder of the Aotearoa-based initiative E Tū Tāngata, for an insightful and thought-provoking session on Thursday, 19 March.

3:45 pm: Networking Reception (Drinks and Nibbles)

4:15 pm: Keynote Presentation by Jay Geldard

Location: Tūora Fendalton School Hall

Exceptional value at just $40 per person
Registration closes: Friday, 13 March

Jay Geldard has been dedicated to youth work and community development since 2003. Known for his ability to lean into complex challenges, Jay thrives on finding solutions where others see impossibilities. He currently serves on multiple boards, including two school boards and a community youth trust, providing him with a deep understanding of the unique pressures within our education system.

Standing at 6’8”, Jay is a physically imposing figure, yet he is equally renowned for his humility and authenticity. His presentations are deeply moving; please be prepared for a session that is as emotionally resonant as it is intellectually challenging.

What is E Tū Tāngata?

E Tū Tāngata is an initiative based in Aotearoa New Zealand that seeks to tackle a cultural phenomenon known as Tall Poppy Syndrome, where people who stand out or achieve success are often “cut down” through criticism or envy. This social dynamic discourages individuals from celebrating their achievements and can lead to self-doubt, isolation, and a fear of failure. E Tū Tāngata aims to shift this mindset by promoting a culture where everyone is valued and success is celebrated collectively.

This is achieved by actively articulating three key principles or ‘strands’:

1. You Have Value: Every person has inherent worth, simply for who they are. This strand encourages people to understand that their value is not dependent on external achievements or the opinions of others.

2. We Succeed Together: Success is not a competition, but a collaborative journey. When one person succeeds, everyone benefits. By supporting each other and working together, we can achieve far more than we can alone.

3. Others Matter: It’s essential to recognise and appreciate the value of others, even when they are different from us. Respecting and celebrating diversity strengthens communities and promotes empathy and inclusion.

E Tū Tāngata is not a program. Nor is it a magic bullet or a quick-fix. Instead, E Tū Tāngata provides language to help you develop the culture of your school and positively change the mindset of your staff and students.

Why You Should Attend

This session offers an opportunity to step back from the day-to-day demands of work and reflect on the underlying culture of your organisation or community. By exploring the language of E Tū Tāngata, you will gain a fresh perspective on how to foster an environment where both staff and students feel seen, valued, and empowered to contribute. It is an invitation to join a conversation about building stronger, more resilient school communities.

We look forward to seeing you there.