Teaching Council marks new chapter in leadership
29 July 2026
Teaching Council marks new chapter in leadership
The Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand has reached an important milestone, with Sean McKinley officially commencing as Chief Executive today.
Sean's arrival completes a significant period of organisational transition, alongside the appointment of Patrick Walsh as Chair of the Governing Council and Andrée Atkinson as Deputy Chair.
Governing Council Chair Patrick Walsh said the organisation is well placed for the future.
"On behalf of the Governing Council, I want to sincerely thank Tom Gott for his contribution during a significant period of change for the organisation. His steady guidance and sound judgement have helped the Teaching Council navigate an important transition, and we're pleased that he will continue to serve as a member of the Governing Council.
I'm looking forward to working alongside Sean as we continue to evolve as a trusted and effective regulator serving both learners and the teaching profession."
The Governing Council will also welcome Kelly Seaburg as its newest member when she begins her term on 1 September.
Kelly is an experienced early childhood leader, provider, and sector advocate with more than 20 years' experience across early childhood education, educational publishing, literacy and numeracy, as well as leadership and governance. She has also contributed to a range of sector and government advisory groups. She brings strong practical knowledge of the opportunities and challenges facing early learning services, alongside a deep commitment to equitable, accessible, and high-quality education for all tamariki and whānau.
Together, these appointments complete an important period of change for the Teaching Council and provide a strong foundation for the work ahead.
