Low decile schools shine in education awards line-up

Most of the finalists named in this year’s Education Excellence awards are low decile schools. Horowhenua College, Waitakere College, William Colenso College and Invercargill Middle School, all decile three, have made it to the finals, along with decile one Manurewa Intermediate.

The only high decile schools named as finalists are Rotorua’s John Paul College (decile seven) and Halswell School, Christchurch, (decile ten), while no mid-decile schools made the final cut.

“I want to congratulate all the finalists on getting this far,” says education minister Nikki Kaye. “It’s a huge achievement meaning they have demonstrated excellence in education to the panel of education experts.

“I was particularly pleased to see that four finalists are part of Communities of Learning Kāhui Ako in their region. Belonging to such a community fosters these schools’ ability to share their good practice,” says Ms Kaye.

“Each of the finalists has shown innovative and effective teaching practice. They demonstrate how important it is to work with students and the wider community to ensure every child succeeds, and for teachers to work together and base their decisions on evidence.

“Every finalist and their community should take pride in what they’re doing and know that they are great examples of innovation and excellence to others throughout New Zealand and internationally.

A judging panel made up of a range of outstanding New Zealanders will visit finalists this month and next to see them in action.

Winners will receive a financial award and professional development opportunities.

• Iain Taylor, principal of finalist Manurewa Intermediate, is pictured above