To the Parents and Community of Kaipaki School

These are the findings of the Education Review Office’s latest report on Kaipaki School.

This report focuses on the evaluation of Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programmes across the school.  The Education Review Office consulted with the board of trustees on the selection of this focus area.  The report also includes evaluation of the quality of health and safety compliance, careers education guidance, the achievement of Māori students, and the quality of teaching Year 4: social studies.  It identifies good practices and possible next steps where appropriate.

Kaipaki School is located in a rural setting 10km south of Hamilton near Cambridge.  This small country school caters for Year 1-8 students.

Students continue to achieve well.  School achievement data indicates that 72% of students are achieving at or above the school’s own benchmarks for writing and 78% for reading.  An analysis of recent achievement information shows that boys are out performing girls in aspects of literacy and numeracy.  The school should now consider establishing and documenting its expected learning outcomes related to EOTC and use these for measuring student achievement and programme effectiveness.  The development of a recording device would assist students to record their EOTC achievements and self-evaluate their own progress.

Since the last review the school has made significant progress in improving the physical environment of the school and developing an extensive resource base to support programme delivery.  A new classroom has been added and all classrooms are now connected by a covered verandah over a spacious decking area.  Staff and community enjoy a new administration facility.

A special feature of the school’s general assessment programme is the use of high quality achievement books.  These useful records are used effectively to report on student progress.

A competent principal ably leads the school.  She uses a collaborative leadership style that engenders team spirit and work ethic.  Her motivation and drive of EOTC has maintained this important aspect of the school’s culture.

A family atmosphere pervades the school.  Students display high levels of respect, tolerance and care for one another.  Learning occurs in bright, vibrant and settled classroom environments that contribute to purposeful student engagement.  Teachers plan and deliver interesting programmes that effectively meet the various learning needs of students. 

Education outside the classroom has a significant place in the education process for Kaipaki students.  It is successfully integrated across the essential learning areas of the New Zealand curriculum.  EOTC programmes provide students in all classes with an extensive range of valuable learning experiences in a variety of contexts.  These initiatives are strongly supported by the board of trustees and community.

Planning and reporting requirements have been met.

Future Action

ERO is confident that the board of trustees can manage the school in the interests of the students and the Crown and bring about the improvements outlined in this report. 

ERO will review the school again as part of the regular review cycle.

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, http://www.ero.govt.nz.

Ian Hill

Area Manager
for Chief Review Officer