Dr. Francine Bennett is an educational professional with over 40 years of experience in teaching and leadership, mainly within Christian schools and tertiary institutions. Dr. Bennett's academic journey includes a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership from the University of Auckland, a Master of Educational Administration (Hons), a Bachelor of Arts, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Theology, and a Diploma in Teaching. Her doctoral research focused on succession planning in faith-based organizations, reflecting her commitment to sustainable leadership in educational settings.

Prior to her tenure at Laidlaw College, Francine was the Principal of Pathways College of Bible & Mission in Tauranga from 2020-2025. She was the Programme Lead for the Grad Dip Tchg (Secondary) programme at Bethlehem Tertiary Institute from 2015 – 2019 and held the position as Senior Educator with roles on key committees such as Academic Board and the BTI Research Committee.  

Francine was the Principal of KingsWay School in Auckland for 15 years having previously served as Principal at Hebron Christian College (Mt Albert) and Elim Christian College (Botany Campus). Throughout her career, she has been passionate about empowering both staff and students through fostering environments where individuals can thrive spiritually, academically and personally. Beyond her professional endeavours, Francine has a deep appreciation for sports, music, drama, and the arts. 

Francine has an enduring interest in learning approaches and projects which cater for students from a diverse range of backgrounds and the contexts in which they live, learn, minister and serve. Her research interests include Educational Leadership, Organizational Culture, Spiritual Formation, Teacher Education, Reflective Practice, Diversity and Inclusive Education.

Publications

Bennett, F. Y. (2017). Who will lead? Principal succession in New Zealand’s faith-based integrated schools. Journal of Educational Leadership, Policy and Practice, 32(2), 3-15

Bennett, F. Y. (2015). “It’s not like they are dropping from heaven”: Leadership succession in New Zealand’s faith-based integrated schools. Doctoral thesis, Auckland University.

Bennett, F., Carpenter, V. M. & Hill, M. F. (2011). Passing the baton: Principal succession in schools. Leading and Managing, 17 (1), 28-44.

Conference Presentations

Bennett, F. Y. (2017). Negotiated Inquiry Project: A high impact learning experience to build professional knowledge. Paper presented at the ATEA Conference, Brisbane, Australia. 5-7 July.

Bennett, F. (2016). Learning from successful current practice to unlock leadership potential for the future. Paper presented at the BELMAS Annual Conference, Carden Park, Cheshire, England, 8-10 July.

Bennett, F. (2016). Unlocking leadership and management potential in faith-based schools in New Zealand. Paper presented at the BELMAS Annual Conference, Carden Park, Cheshire, England, 8-10 July.

Bennett, F. (2016). Who will take the lead? Preparing for Principal succession. Paper presented at NZEALS Conference, Dunedin, New Zealand, 20-22 April.

Bennett, F. (2014). Educational policy and practice: Can leaders shape the landscape? Paper presented at the BELMAS Annual Conference, Ettington Chase, Stratford-upon-Avon, England, 11-13 July.

Bennett, F. (2012). Passing the baton: Planning for the continuity of vision and culture through a change of leadership. Paper presented at CCEAM Conference, Limassol, Cyprus, 3-7 November.