Breakfast Connector 2026 #1

Guest speaker – Pete Burdon, Media Expert
https://www.peteburdon.com/

REGISTRATIONS CLOSE: Friday 20 March 12 midday

In a 24-hour news environment, schools can find themselves under intense scrutiny with very little warning. A serious incident, a complaint that gains traction or an unexpected event can quickly lead to media interest while parents, staff and the wider community seek reassurance. How leaders communicate in these early moments has a lasting impact on trust and reputation.

This presentation shows school leaders how to be ready for these scenarios before they occur. It’s too late once something happens. It covers the development of a simple and clear crisis communication plan and how to handle media interviews when the stakes are high.

Alongside this, the session provides a simple approach for handling difficult conversations with parents. It looks at how to prepare quickly, remain calm and measured, use body language and clear

messaging to de-escalate tense situation and move toward positive outcomes.

Pete Burdon is one of New Zealand’s most experienced communication trainers for school leaders, with over 15 years specialising in media interview training, crisis communication, and high-stakes conversations. Through Media Training NZ, Pete has worked with multiple principals, senior leaders, and pastoral teams across the country, helping them prepare for moments when attention is intense and every word matters.

Pete’s work focuses on helping leaders remain calm, clear, and credible when pressure is highest. He trains school leaders to communicate confidently with the media and key stakeholders when things go wrong, emphasising practical preparation such as crisis communication planning and media interview training.

His Mastering Difficult Conversations programme grew from feedback from principals who found the media skills they learned were valuable when dealing with difficult parents. Pete expanded this into a practical framework that blends proven media techniques with strategies for emotional control, effective body language, and de-escalation techniques.

Pete is known for his practical, down-to-earth style and his ability to build confidence in sensitive situations.