The Education Review Office (ERO) reviews schools and early childhood education services every three years on average, and publishes national reports on current education practice.
The Education Review Office (ERO) Evaluation Wanganui City College is a multicultural, co-educational state secondary school with a strong commitment to addressing the educational needs and interests of its diverse student population. The school is situated in well-maintained, expansive grounds. It provides a range of academic and vocational courses and sporting, social and cultural activities to meet students’ learning needs, consistent with their abilities and interests. The board of trustees has a strong commitment to ensuring that student achievement and welfare are fostered throughout the school and that appropriate resources are provided.
Students demonstrate a sense of belonging and pride in their school and are generally positive about the educational opportunities provided to meet their learning needs. Most students are engaged in learning and experience friendly relationships with staff and each other. They express their views and opinions and cooperate well to complete learning tasks and share ideas. Student participation in sport and cultural activities reinforces the positive and supportive relationships. The school’s analysis of student achievement data indicates some improvements in the number of students who are achieving NQF/NCEA qualifications in the senior school and in literacy and numeracy. The school’s achievement profile is comparable to schools of similar decile and type.
Most teachers are well organised and committed to the ongoing improvement of teaching and learning and the pastoral care of students. They encourage positive student behaviour and attitudes to learning, and interact with students in constructive and supportive ways. Most teachers’ classroom management is focused on learning rather than issues of behaviour. Consequently, students have a good understanding of the purpose of lessons and routines. Teachers use effective assessment practices to monitor and report on students’ progress and achievement. In recent years, teachers have benefited from professional development that aims to improve student engagement and achievement.
The board has a clear sense of direction and purpose. Trustees are aware of their governance responsibilities and work well in the interests of the school. They operate effective self-review processes and have developed detailed strategic and annual plans. The board, principal and staff have a shared understanding of the school community’s values and aspirations for their children. Trustees are well informed about school development initiatives and improvements in student achievement. The board’s annual report to the Ministry of Education includes an analysis of variance between the school’s improvement targets and outcomes for students.
