The Latest Report from the Education Review Office

Wanganui Intermediate School
2 July 2010

To the Parents and Community of Wanganui Intermediate School

These are the findings of the Education Review Office's latest report on Wanganui Intermediate School.

Wanganui Intermediate School is a large school situated close to the central business area of Whanganui. Students enrol from various contributing schools both within the city and from the surrounding district. The environment includes a considerable range of purpose-built facilities, extensive resources and well-maintained grounds and buildings. In 2008, a new Library and Information Centre was completed. The particular needs of Year 7 and 8 students are well considered and they respond with pride to their surroundings.

Teachers collate and analyse a wide range of student achievement information. Data for Maori students is reported separately. Most students, including Maori, achieve at or above national expectations in reading, writing and mathematics. Regular monitoring and reporting identifies strategies to improve students' progress. Although new students enter with a wide range of achievement levels they make progress during their time at the school.

Students have opportunities to be highly competitive in many fields of sporting, academic and cultural activities. Participation for enjoyment is equally available and celebrated. Students extend, share and improve their capability in information and communication technologies (ICT). They frequently lead in this area and demonstrate considerable expertise.

Teachers know their students well. A culture of respect, care and understanding is carefully nurtured. Successful literacy learning is a priority. This focus sits alongside developing students' self-confidence, positive attitudes and progress in all areas of the curriculum; academic, sporting and cultural. The extensive programmes for students with complex learning and behavioural needs, achieve successful outcomes. Students with ability and talent have many opportunities to extend and consolidate their learning.

Pastoral care and support encompasses students and extends to families. Senior leaders and teachers value close working partnerships with whanau. There is evidence that initiatives impact on student achievement, motivation and engagement. Relationships between students and with their teachers are positive, respectful and affirming.

The principal is an effective, professional leader with a clear vision for school improvement. A capable senior leadership team provide high quality support for staff, making decisions that balance benefits for students and teachers. Professional learning is ongoing and planned, supporting both school direction and individual teachers' goals. There is a climate of reflection, review and moderation. All teachers have opportunities to follow their interests and to develop their leadership capability.

Trustees contribute a wide range of skills and experience to their roles. They are well informed about student achievement and, through self review, make well-considered planning and resourcing decisions. The board values teachers and supports their efforts in making a difference for students. The level of resourcing for the new library and learning centre demonstrates trustees' commitment to and recognition of, the importance of achievement in literacy and numeracy.

Parents are highly visible in the school and engage in coaching student sports teams, assisting with cultural events and supporting activities through the Parent and Teacher Committee. As citizens of the wider Whanganui community, students actively contribute to projects and charities. The school has a mature, environmental focus achieved and promoted by a capable student management council.

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 school's previous reporting history and is based on:

• what is known about student 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 national 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

Kathleen Atkins
National Manager Review Services
Central Region