
Who are we?
EdRising is a collaboration between key organisations and individuals committed to transforming education (see our ecosystem)
Planning for this initiative has been going on for over a year now, with a small team of NZ educators collaborating with the leaders of international networks of educators who are pursuing the same transformational mission, including the Aurora Institute, Transcend Education and the Global Education Leaders Partnership.

EdRising is about creating a movement, not an organisation – an alliance, not a new entity.

Building on relationships and partnerships to create a dynamic ecosystem of influence and transformation.

Recognising and involving the existing transforming groups and organisations in NZ and internationally

Galvanising action, providing strategic direction and support

Leveraging innovation, expertise and resources already available within the ecosystem.

Creating networks of expertise, coaching and mentoring for local leaders.
Our Vision Team
EdRising has involved conversations and input from a wide range of like-minded individuals who are committed to educational transformation. At the heart of this is a ‘vision team’ who have helped guide the development of the initiative, comprising:
- Derek Wenmoth
- Rob Mcintosh
- Liam Rutherford
- Maurie Abraham
- Daniel Birch
- Sarah Martin
- Dr. Hana O’Regan
- Claire Amos
- Dr. Tim Gander
Our Theory of Change
We have spent a lot of time developing a theory of change to use as we seek to create this movement together. Our Theory of Change describes the need we are trying to address, the changes we want to bring about (our outcomes) and how you plan to achieve these changes (our activities).
We’ve combined all of this into a single page which you can download by clicking on the image below.

Click on image to download a larger version
Our Values

Equity is a fundamental value in our project design for innovative schools, guiding us to create inclusive, innovative solutions that address the diverse needs of all students and communities. We believe that by actively engaging with marginalised voices and considering systemic inequalities, we can foster trust, enhance creativity, and develop develop learning that is not only representative and relevant but also sustainable and impactful. Our commitment to equity ensures that our work contributes to social responsibility, economic prosperity, and long-term community well-being, ultimately leading to a more just and equitable educational environment and outcomes for every student.

Rigour stands as our unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work. It helps bring a sharp focus to our work, and means approaching each task with deliberate focus and thoroughness, ensuring that our decisions and outputs are firmly grounded in evidence and comprehensive research. More than just attention to detail, rigor drives us to pursue the highest standards of quality and to validate our work through measurable outcomes. This disciplined approach not only elevates our immediate deliverables but also builds lasting credibility and trust with our stakeholders, establishing a foundation for sustainable success.

Agency embodies our deep commitment to honouring and nurturing the autonomy and self-determination of all those we work alongside. Drawing from the profound wisdom of tino rangatiratanga, we recognise that true partnership means respecting the sovereignty and inherent right of people to shape their own destinies. Through ako, we embrace the understanding that knowledge and growth flow both ways – we are all simultaneously teachers and learners, contributors and beneficiaries. This reciprocal relationship creates spaces where genuine collaboration flourishes and where everyone’s mana is enhanced and learning advanced through their active participation in our shared journey.

Future-focus is a pivotal value in our innovative schools project design, embodying our commitment to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. We are dedicated to anticipating and addressing the needs of future generations, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability required to thrive in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world. Our forward-thinking approach involves continuously scanning the horizon for emerging trends, technologies, and societal shifts, ensuring that our educational initiatives remain relevant and impactful. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning, we aim to empower students to become resilient, innovative problem-solvers capable of navigating uncertainty and shaping a positive future.

Sustainability is a cornerstone value in our project design for the innovative schools network, reflecting our commitment to creating lasting, positive change. We are dedicated to intentionally designing initiatives with sustainable practices and methods built in from the outset, ensuring that our educational solutions have enduring impact. By prioritising sustainability, we aim to develop programs and resources that can thrive long-term, adapting to evolving needs without depleting resources or compromising future opportunities. This approach encompasses environmental consciousness, financial viability, and the cultivation of self-sustaining educational ecosystems.
Contact
Please complete the panel below to communicate with us directly – we’ll respond as soon as we can to your questions.