Presenters

Simon Kenny, Principal, Fergusson Intermediate School
Simon has been in education for over 25 years now after leaving his career in graphic design and photolithography at the age of 26. He has taught in many schools in Wellington and has been the Principal of a small contributing School (Birchville School) before winning the Principal position at Fergusson Intermediate where he has been for the past 7 years. Leading the school community through the COVID years has been a challenge, but also a huge privilege and opportunity to learn and grow. Simon’s wife is also a Principal and they have a 16 year old son who went to both of their schools as a young student before escaping to college. Simon is passionate about education and empowering all of our amazing young people. He works in a high energy environment and absolutely loves his school, his team and his community.


Tanya Kennedy, Barrister, Lambton Chambers
Tanya Kennedy has over 20 years of experience in employment law. She has worked in private practice and a range of in-house Legal Counsel roles (including with a specific education focus). She has been a Barrister since 2019. She advises and represents clients in the full range of employment law issues and institutions, including mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, and the Employment Court. She also has extensive experience as a workplace investigator and representing clients in employment investigation processes. Tanya has experience advising and representing various parties to an employment relationship – employers, employees and unions. This enables Tanya to look at employment issues from various angles, to provide strategic and practical advice.