The Minister of Education, Hon. Erica Stanford, has announced the addition of David Ferguson to the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) Board, along with the reappointment of Jeremy Baker. These decisions aim to strengthen the Board with seasoned expertise in education and workforce development.
David Ferguson currently serves as the Headmaster of Westlake Boys’ High School, where he has held leadership roles for more than two decades, including the past 15 years as Headmaster. He also contributes to the Minister’s NCEA Professional Advisory Group, leveraging his extensive experience in secondary education leadership.
Jeremy Baker, who joined the NZQA Board in 2021, will continue his term. As the Chief Executive of Muka Tangata – People, Food, and Fibre Workforce Development Council, Baker brings a wealth of knowledge from his work in industry, government, and education sectors. Previously, he served in high-ranking roles such as Chief Insight Officer at Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Lincoln University, and Executive Director of the Industry Training Federation. His current board term will conclude on 28 April 2026.
The Board also bids farewell to two distinguished members. Lyn Provost, who has served since 2018, and Pania Gray, who joined in 2021, have both completed their terms. Their contributions to the NZQA Board during their tenure have been highly valued.
Jeremy Baker’s Contributions
Jeremy Baker’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping educational reforms. As Chair of the ministerial advisory group on NCEA changes, he provided critical insights to guide the Minister of Education. His term on the NZQA Board, which began on 1 October 2021, reflects his commitment to aligning workforce needs with educational outcomes. Baker’s background spans key sectors, enhancing his ability to address complex challenges at the intersection of education and industry.
David Ferguson’s Visionary Leadership
David Ferguson’s career began in the United Kingdom before he relocated to New Zealand, where his leadership at Westlake Boys’ High School has left an indelible mark. Beyond his role as Headmaster, he has actively engaged in principal-led initiatives, including serving as Chair of the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Board and leading the Association of Boys’ Schools of New Zealand. He has also contributed significantly to teacher development, founding the Waikato University/Auckland Schools’ teacher training programme. Ferguson’s future plans include becoming the inaugural CEO of The Teachers’ Institute in January 2025, following his departure from Westlake Boys. His NZQA Board term begins on 29 October 2024 and runs through 28 October 2027.
The appointments of Ferguson and Baker reflect a strategic approach to advancing the NZQA’s mission of ensuring high-quality educational standards while fostering collaboration between educational institutions and industry stakeholders.
