Tauwhare School has an exceptional record of E.R.O. reviews.

These are the findings of the Education Review Office’s latest report on Tauwhare School dated 17 June 2010.

To the Parents and Community of Tauwhare School

Tauwhare School is located in rural surroundings close to Hamilton, Morrinsville and Cambridge and caters for students from Years 1 to 6.  The school recently celebrated its 125^th Jubilee.  Since the last review the school roll has continued to grow and at the time of this review in April 2010 the roll was 117 students, 27 of whom identify as Maori.

The school continues to provide high quality educational opportunities for students.  A significant number of students are achieving at or above national expectations in aspects of literacy and mathematics.  The school’s overall achievement information shows that all students are progressing in their learning.

Significant strengths include:

·         effective educational direction provided by an experienced and well-informed principal, ably supported by senior leaders who continue to set high expectations and provide valuable guidance for trustees, staff and students;

·         school staff working collaboratively as a team focused on providing quality education opportunities for students;

·         learning environment and resources that offer a rich range of learning opportunities for students in relevant and meaningful contexts;

·         positive and respectful relationships among students and teachers;

·         teachers using a variety of learning strategies underpinned by current research and best practice to promote student learning and engagement;

·         a strong reflective culture informed by student achievement information that has been thoroughly analysed and interpreted; and

·         valuable partnerships developed with parents, whanau and community.

Trustees are well informed and focused on providing holistic educational opportunities for students.  They have ensured that the school is well maintained and resourced to benefit students’ learning.

Students continue to enjoy learning in an attractive, caring, rural environment where they are developing confidence and the necessary competencies to succeed in life.

Future Action

ERO is likely to carry out the next review in four to five years.

Review Coverage

This report provides an evaluation of how effectively the school’s curriculum promotes student learning – engagement, progress and achievement.  ERO’s evaluation takes account of the previous reporting history and is based on:

• what is known about students achievement information, including the achievement of Maori and Pacific students;
• decisions made to improve student achievement using assessment and self-review information; and
• teaching strategies and programmes implemented to give effect to the school’s curriculum.

ERO also gathers information during the review to contribute to its normal reports.

The national reports are published on ERO’s website.

If you would like a copy of the full report, please contact the school or see the ERO website, www.ero.govt.nz

Richard Thornton

National Manager Review Services

Northern Region