Trouble is My Business

Produced by Vicky Pope, Juliette Veber
Edited by: Cushla Dillon

NZ, 2008, 83 minutes, Exempt

An observational documentary offering a unique insight into a low-socio-economic South Auckland high school. It captures the real life drama at the predominantly Pacific Island Aorere College, and one man’s battle to keep his students in school and out of trouble.
Assistant Principal Mr Peach is the back stop for kids with truancy and behavioural problems, when no other teacher can deal with them. He takes a zero tolerance stance against violence, drug taking, truancy and any of the other disciplinary problems; fighting to keep the kids at school through a mixture of tough discipline, street knowledge, negotiation, support and encouragement – whatever it takes. He’s a rebel, and not everyone agrees with his approach; but through his dogged compassion and respect he gets results where many other educators have failed, instilling a sense of self worth in his students that changes many of their lives.