CEO David Ferguson announces departure; new CEO announced

Friday 20 March 20

The Teachers’ Institute CEO and Co-Founder David Ferguson will be stepping down from the role to take up the reins as Chief Executive and Chief Review Officer of the Education Review Office (ERO).

He said the decision to leave the organisation he co-founded in 2024 with Dr Nina Hood, and has led since, was a difficult one to make, but strong foundations were laid and The Teachers’ Institute was only going from strength to strength.

“Application numbers are strong, we have an outstanding team in place, a number of schools are wanting to join our network and we have settled into the academic year in fantastic new premises in Parnell. The future is incredibly bright,” he said.

Chair Heather McRae said the Board was proud to see David appointed to a national role at ERO and congratulated him on co-founding The Teachers' Institute, which was continuing to make a positive difference enhancing the quality of teachers in schools through the in-school training programme.

“This innovation has brought together leaders across the education sector to grow and offer new pathways for teacher education. We wish David well and congratulate him as he moves to his new role.”

David’s last day at The Teachers' Institute will be Thursday 9 July 2026.

New CEO Heather McRae to take up the reins

The Teachers’ Institute is delighted to announce that Heather McRae will step away from her role as The Teachers’ Institute Board Chair to take on the role of CEO.

Heather is an educational leader with experience as a teacher, consultant, and principal of three schools – a multi-cultural co-ed K-12 international school in Beijing, a large co-ed Year 9–13 New Zealand state school - Pakuranga College, and a private ELE–Year 13 girls’ school – Diocesan School for Girls in Auckland.

She has worked as a curriculum, assessment, leadership and board governance consultant in Japan, Indonesia, China, Australia and Brunei. Her international experiences have shaped her desire to grow a world class education for every student in New Zealand.

Heather has a Bachelor’s degree double majoring in organic chemistry and biochemistry and a Master’s degree in educational administration. She is an experienced change agent and believes that education has the power to positively influence the world when students learn in creative and aspirational environments from inspirational teachers.

Heather has been an advocate of high-quality, in-school teacher training, and a Trustee and Board Chair of The Teachers’ Institute since its establishment in 2024.

Heather’s first day in the role will be Friday 10 July 2026.