This report on Maori achievement is produced because Maori make up a significant proportion of our roll and schools are required by legislation to consult regularly with the Maori community on the achievement of Maori students.
I am very pleased to report that our Maori students are achieving in all areas, although individual students (of all ethnicities) do face learning challenges.
I believe the continuing excellent results of our Maori students are the result of the support and care of parents towards their children. Our school has worked to reinforce the positive messages of parents.
LEADERSHIP
Year 8 Maori students are active in student leadership roles at school. They are prominent in all areas of student leadership—class representatives, class sports captains and House captains. Many more Maori students lead by example, modelling how to behave in the classroom and playground.
The Year 7s have also readily accepted their responsibilities within the school and made a very positive contribution.
MATHEMATICS
An analysis of the half year and end of year results by achievement level (overleaf) shows Maori students have made substantial progress throughout the year and their achievement is to a high level. Year 7 and 8 students may be expected to be working at levels three and four. Maori students are evenly distributed throughout our ability grouped Maths classes. Boys are also achieving to a similar level to girls.
Overall Maori students have a very positive attitude to Mathematics.
Conclusion: Maori students produced very pleasing results and comparedfavourably with national averages for all students.
LITERACY
In written language and Reading Maori students are also achieving well. Using the same scale of achievement levels in June and December, a marked development to higher levels is clear.
The numbers of students achieving in lower levels has decreased significantly during the year. A few children are hard to shift for various reasons but extra help has been in place for these.
We will continue to put a lot of effort here because a high reading ability is a powerful indicator of success at secondary school.
DISCIPLINE
No Maori student has been stood-down or suspended in the last four years. They are also no more likely to figure in detention than any other student group. This reflects the quality of individual students who have a positive attitude to learning and school.
I have very high expectations for all students and am seldom disappointed. We work together in an environment of mutual respect.
THE WAY FORWARD
Maintaining strong parent-school links and communication is very important for your children to continue to have success at school. You are always very welcome to contact either myself or your child’s teacher if you have a concern or a question.
I am also very keen to hear any suggestions you have that may improve how we deliver the curriculum for your child or any other aspect of school life.
By working together we can be sure your child has the best opportunity to be successful at school, have a strong sense of citizenship and built a solid foundation for a successful and happy life.
