A small Mount Maunganui school recently welcomed a new principal and is now set to welcome international students to their kura by the end of this year.

Lisa Broadmore began as principal at St Thomas More Catholic School on Gloucester Rd, at the start of Term 2.

She came from St Mary’s Catholic School in Tauranga, where she’d worked for 16 years, including five years as deputy principal.

“This is my first time as principal. I feel incredibly privileged to lead a school with such a strong reputation for excellence,” said Broadmore of the Catholic school, which is nestled between Arataki Park, Baywave Aquatic Centre and All Saints by the Sea Parish.

With a roll of a little more than 100 students learning in five classes, St Thomas is a place where children are known by name, celebrated for who they are, and encouraged to shine – spiritually, academically, socially, and creatively, said Broadmore.

“There’s a genuine sense of whānau here – a joyful, welcoming atmosphere where learners thrive and faith is woven through everything we do.”

The school catered to Year 1-6 students from Mount Maunganui to Pāpāmoa, with a values-based education that reflects the best of Catholic schooling, said Broadmore.

“Our size is our strength. It allows us to really know our tamariki and their families, to offer high-quality learning that meets individual needs, while also drawing on the wider resources of our Catholic education network.”

Leila Funaki and Princial Lisa Broadmore (background Johan De Graaf) Students Leila Funaki and Johan De Graaf with new principal Lisa Broadmore. Photo / Brydie Thompson

From creative arts and kapa haka to sports, music, leadership and service, students were encouraged to discover their passions and develop their gifts.

“Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or on the stage, our children are always learning – about themselves, about others, and about what it means to live a life of purpose.”

Now in her second term as principal, Broadmore was excited to guide the school into a globally-connected future, with plans to welcome international students from late-2025.

“Opening our doors to the world is our next step,” she said.

“We’re ready to embrace students from other cultures into our inclusive, nurturing school family – and to grow global citizens who are proud of who they are and ready to make a difference.”

Broadmore said the school had capacity to host up to 10 international students.

“Students are welcome to join us for short-term stays or full-year enrolments, depending on their needs and preferences.”

The international students would be fully immersed in school life, said Broadmore.

“Rather than being placed in separate classrooms, international students would join peers in mainstream classes, learning alongside them and engaging in the same curriculum and activities.

“This approach would ensure they experience authentic English language learning opportunities in a supportive environment while building friendships and a strong sense of belonging.

“To help international students succeed, we will provide additional support where needed, including access to English language lessons.”

In her role, Broadmore wanted to bring a strong sense of vision and dedication to the school – grounded in faith and guided by a deep love for children and learning.

“I’m so excited for what’s ahead.”