Mark Haines

Principal,

ACG New Zealand International College
ACG Norton College
ACG English School 

Background

Mark Haines studied Sciences at The University of Auckland, majoring in Chemistry before training as a secondary school teacher and taking up a position at Kelston Boys' High School in 1981 where he was to become a Dean and Head of Junior Science.

His teaching led him to Niue Island in the Pacific in the late eighties and later to Brunei, where he spent six years teaching in a girls' school. With many years teaching in an English Second Language environment Mark was ideally suited to work at ACG New Zealand International College.

ACG Career

Mark started at ACG in 2001 teaching Chemistry and taking on a welfare role as Dean in ACG New Zealand International College. The growth of the school roll led to his appointment as Assistant Principal, working primarily with The University of Auckland Certificate in Foundation Studies students.

Welfare became a major part of Mark's work for a number of years, working with Deans and other support staff to ensure students were well cared for. Having worked and travelled overseas for eight years, Mark has a good understanding of the needs of students from a wide range of cultures. Knowing that a student's welfare is prioritised means that the student has every chance of performing to the best of their ability in the classroom.

Mark, realising the need to continue to learn, completed his Masters degree in Science Education in 2005 so in more recent years Professional Development of staff has been a focus. Part of his Master's thesis investigated the use of ICT in learning and this has become a passion of his over the years.

Mark was a founding member of the ACSNZ Board and has served on The University of Auckland Foundation Studies Board since 2001. In 2007, Mark was appointed Deputy Principal and was based at the ACG Parnell College Campus.

In 2010 Mark was appointed Principal of ACG New Zealand International College with responsibility for the ACG City Campus, including ACG English School and ACG Norton College.