Kay Penniall

PLD Consultant - Team Leader

Based in Tāmaki Herenga Manawa (Auckland), Kay is an experienced PLD facilitator who supports schools by:

  • building curriculum knowledge in literacy, mathematics, and statistics

  • applying the science of learning to enhance the teaching of literacy, mathematics, and statistics

  • using the understand/know/do framework, teaching sequences, and structured planning by year level

  • analysing data to address students’ specific learning needs

  • supporting acceleration strategies to boost student engagement

  • promoting equity for all learners, guided by key Ministry of Education documents (Tātaiako, Ka Hikitia, Tapasā, and the Pasifika Education Plan)

  • implementing quality mathematics teaching aligned with the new draft maths curriculum for years 0-8.

With over 30 years of experience as a teacher, deputy principal, and facilitator responsible for data and achievement in primary and intermediate settings, Kay is committed to helping teachers overcome challenges by sharing effective strategies—ranging from using materials and in-class modelling to guiding students toward problem-solving and abstract thinking.

Kay has designed and facilitated large-scale workshops on a range of topics, including:

  • Assessment for Learning (AFL)

  • the use of assessment tools and data

  • structured literacy

  • accredited mathematics and statistics facilitator

  • leadership and management

  • leadership and assessment

  • Kohiko mai

  • local curriculum design.

Passionate about creating professional learning opportunities that teachers can readily apply in their classrooms, Kay focuses on practical, confidence-building approaches that enhance teaching practice. Her work is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and diverse approaches to literacy and mathematics education in Aotearoa.

Outside of work, Kay enjoys travelling, spending time with friends and family, exploring beaches and snorkelling, reading novels, and appreciating the arts.