We’re delighted to share that Sarah Wilson, Marsden’s Director of Performing Arts and French teacher, has received an Independent Schools of New Zealand (ISNZ) Honours Award for services to performing arts. The awards were presented at the ISNZ Annual Conference on Friday 12 September, held at Tākina Wellington Convention and Events Centre.
Established over 25 years ago, the ISNZ Honours Awards recognise exceptional individuals whose talent, service and commitment go well beyond the expectations of their role. The awards aim to inspire members through the recognition and celebration of innovation and excellence, helping ensure independent schools remain at the forefront of educational best practice and achievement outcomes.
As an Old Girl and staff member since 2000, Sarah’s impact is felt across the school. She leads Marsden’s performing arts with vision and energy—directing large-scale productions, coordinating lighting and backstage crews, and championing choirs, music and dance. She also serves as a House Mistress, co-leads Year 13 event planning and leadership development, and coordinates debating. In every sphere, Sarah exemplifies the Marsden values of hiranga (excellence), oha (service), and auahatanga (creativity).
For many students, Sarah creates a home in the performing arts. She is a strong advocate for student voice and inclusion, opening pathways onstage and offstage alike, from performance to technical and production roles. She is known for her exacting standards, deep passion for the performing arts and impeccable organisation, underpinned by care for students that extends well beyond the classroom.
Sarah’s commitment to excellence is matched by her own lifelong learning. Following a 2019 sabbatical in French-speaking Canada and the USA, she enriched Marsden’s French programme with international perspectives. She continues to grow her craft, studying Italian, dancing with Jennifer Evans Dance, volunteering with the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and contributing to local theatre—bringing fresh, real-world creativity back to her students.
Her leadership has produced calendar highlights and award-winning productions, and she actively connects current students with alumnae in the creative industries, providing them with tangible insight into possible future pathways.
Principal Paula Wells said, “Sarah is a beloved teacher and an indispensable performing arts leader at Marsden. She leads with care and purpose, ensuring every student has the chance to find their voice.”
Marsden warmly congratulates Sarah on this prestigious honour and thanks her for her extraordinary dedication to our students and school community.
