28 January 2010
To the Parents and Community of Levin Intermediate School
These are the findings of the Education Review Office's latest report onLevin Intermediate School.
Students participate in a wide range of appropriate learning and recreational activities within well-maintained settings. Teachers and parents actively support high levels of student involvement in an extensive range of academic, sporting and cultural activities. Students experience varied educational opportunities from specialist programmes of technology, art, music, science, enrichment programmes and rotational learning. Students are well supported in all aspects of school life.
Assessment information is used in a range of meaningful ways. Teachers use data to identify students' individual learning needs, group students for learning, decide appropriate teaching approaches and reflect on the effectiveness of their practice. Students assess their progress and that of peers. Students, parents and teachers participate in three-way conferences on individual student progress and learning aspirations. Establishing such learning partnerships assists students in developing greater self responsibility.
A focus on the development of a student-centred, inclusive learning culture is evident. Positive interactions occur between staff and students. Effective strategies engage students in purposeful activities. Examples include teachers' successful questioning to elicit students' ideas and assist their developing understandings. Well-trained teacher aides assist and encourage individuals and groups of students. The management team facilitate ongoing staff professional learning and development for successful teaching strategies.
An experienced and knowledgeable board works collaboratively with the principal, leadership team and teachers to develop partnerships with parents and the community. The board receives some useful information on student progress and achievement. However, regular presentation of analysed data to the board and staff in reading, writing and mathematics should increase their knowledge for making informed decisions about teaching, learning and resourcing school wide.
Future Action
ERO is confident that the board of trustees can govern the school in the interest of the students and the Crown and bring about the improvements outlined in this report. ERO is likely to carry out the next review in three years.
Review Coverage
ERO reviews do not cover every aspect of school performance and each ERO report may cover different issues. The aim is to provide information on aspects that are central to student achievement and useful to this school.
If you would like a copy of the full report, please contact the school or see the ERO website, www.ero.govt.nz.
Kathleen Atkins
National Manager Review Services
Central Region