Not all leaders are confined to a single role, and for OneSchool Global’s Amber Church, this is certainly true. Amber is the Regional Director of Teaching and Learning for Primary in New Zealand and Argentina by day, and an International and Olympic Field Hockey Referee by night, making her a true “game-changer” in both fields.
Amber’s story is a shining example of how OSG fosters an environment enabling her to thrive in her leadership role while also pursuing her passions outside of work.
Amber’s Journey to OSG
When Amber began her journey with OSG, it was only intended to be temporary, taking the role as a Campus Principal for Gisborne campus as a maternity leave cover. While her plan was to return to her leadership role at a state school at the completion of the contract, after falling in love with OSG’s community and values, she knew she wanted to stay.
“The support from the OSG community is incredible,” Amber says. “It’s not just about the staff and teachers—it’s about the people, the values, and the work ethic. Everyone wants to know how they can support you, and once they understand that they deliver.”
Dual Passion: Leadership and Hockey
What’s unique about Amber’s story is her ability to thrive both as a leader at OSG and as an international field hockey umpire. A seasoned professional, Amber has been involved in hockey since the age of 15 and has umpired at three Olympic Games, two World Cups, and numerous international events. Despite the demanding nature of both careers, Amber has found a way to excel in both fields.
“One of the things I love about OSG is that I’ve been supported in pursuing my passion for hockey at the highest level, while also being able to contribute as a leader within the organisation,” she explains.
“I’ve been able to pursue hockey at a world-class level without compromising my role at OSG.
“When I joined, I made it clear that I was an international hockey umpire and would need time off for events. The organisation’s response was incredibly supportive. Last year, I had four weeks off to attend the Olympics, and OSG supported that wholeheartedly. I’m grateful to work for a company that values my career and allows me to pursue my dreams outside of work as well, it is truly unmatched.”
Transferable Skills: Leadership in Both Education and Sports
Amber sees many parallels between the leadership skills she hones in the world of hockey and her role at OSG. “The skills I use in hockey—communication, relationship-building, and leadership—are just as important in education,” she says. “In both fields, the key to success is strong relationships and clear communication. If you get those right, everything else falls into place.”
Whether in our learning centres or on the field, Amber believes that her work in both arenas helps her grow as a leader, giving her the tools to lead with fairness, kindness, and integrity.
Role models and leading with integrity
As a leader, Amber fondly recalls the advice she received from her father, a business owner.
“Dad always used to say, Never ask your team to do something you wouldn’t be willing to do yourself.”
It is this philosophy that guides her leadership style, which is centered around fairness, leading by example, and being willing to roll up her sleeves when needed. “I always make sure that whatever I ask my team to do, it’s something I’m willing to do as well,” Amber says. “Leadership is about earning respect by demonstrating that you’re in it with your team, not above them.”
Amber also believes in the power of kindness. “Everyone is doing their best in any given moment. You don’t know what they’ve come to work with that day, just like you don’t know what a player’s going through before a game. We all need to lead with empathy and kindness and approach every situation with the understanding that people are doing their best.”
Amber also notes the role that other mentors have played in her life. “A Principal by the name of Kaye Griffin was the first person who gave me a teaching job, and she also supported my hockey aspirations. As a young principal, she led with integrity and fairness, and she wasn’t afraid to make tough decisions,” Amber recalls. “She made it clear to me that it’s possible to pursue both a professional career and a passion, and I’ve tried to model my leadership on that example.”
Celebrating Women in Leadership
Amber’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and with the backing of a supportive organisation. As she continues to lead at OSG and pursue her hockey career, she remains focused on her vision to give back to both education and sport. “It’s an honour to be able to do both at such a high level,” she says. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to live this dream, and I hope to continue making a difference in both arenas for years to come.”
Amber’s journey is just one of many inspiring stories of women in leadership at OSG. As we celebrate International Women’s week, we reflect on how OSG empowers women to pursue their passions, balance their professional and personal lives, and succeed in roles of leadership. At OSG, we’re committed to creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Next time you’re watching Olympic Hockey on television, keep an eye out for our very own Amber Church, making her power plays on and off the field.
