Jill Skjottrup is a highly respected educator with deep experience in junior school leadership and early years transitions. For over 25 years, Jill served as Assistant and Deputy Principal at Nelson Park School in Napier, where she was instrumental in leading the school’s approach to Learning Through Play, with a particular focus on transition to school.

Under Jill’s guidance, Nelson Park developed a unique school-wide model for easing the move from early childhood to primary education. This approach was so impactful that it became the subject of published research in the International Early Childhood Education Journal in 2018.

Jill’s expertise draws from both local leadership and international insight. During her 2010 sabbatical, she studied the Reggio Emilia approach in Italy and investigated the relationship between Te Whāriki and the New Zealand Curriculum — developing a deep understanding of how to bridge early learning philosophies with primary schooling.

With a background in Playcentre leadership, Jill also brings a strong parent education and community lens to her work. Her approach is relational, informed, and grounded in decades of hands-on practice.