Tēnā koutou e te whānau whānui o Rangitoto,
Thank you for taking the time to explore the range of articles in this edition of Vista. We are delighted to have the opportunity to share the life of the school with you.
Education is at an interesting juncture, with ongoing national reviews and incoming curriculum changes presenting both opportunities and challenges for our staff and students. The publication of the draft English curriculum last week has been received with optimism by our experts in the English department. We are pleased that the curriculum includes detailed outlines of the knowledge students are expected to learn at each level.
In the past, I have been highly critical of the lack of guidance and support given to classroom teachers in New Zealand, as this has contributed to widening equity gaps in achievement—gaps we must all work to close. Hopefully, the curriculum’s focus on knowledge, detailed guidance, and heightened expectations will serve as a foundation for transforming educational outcomes across Aotearoa, ensuring that all teachers have a solid framework from which to guide every student in their class toward success.
My thanks to all students and staff for their efforts over the course of a long school term. I hope you all enjoy a well-earned Easter break with friends and family.
Patrick Gale, Principal