Kia ora koutou

Lovely to see so many of you at the Amesbury School Olympics Day. The events were a little different from what we will see in Rio; however, they were certainly fun if not a little gross in one case!

Last week was incredibly full on with the Education Review Team carrying out its three yearly review of the school. We will receive a draft review document in six or so weeks. However, the review officers made a point of saying that they found our children very polite (often opening the doors for them), confident and articulate and knowledgeable about their learning. Even five year olds insisted they have their say! They said students are involved in purposeful learning activities and they know the expectations for their learning and where to next. They confidently articulated their learning levels and goals. They have a high use of the language of learning (understand learning and know themselves as learners) and they know how to access help and support for their work - they know how to get help; where to get it; when to seek help; and who to get help from. They felt the school has a relentless focus on student progress and achievement and that student and parent voice is genuinely valued and acted upon to improve what is happening.

However, they also noticed some unevenness in the implementation of personalised learning programmes across the school. This is something we are aware of and we have been working towards greater consistency right across the school and will continue to do so.

The review did not raise any surprises and it was thrilling to discover that ERO did find strong evidence of what we have been working towards - students as "insiders" and agents of their own learning.

Congratulations to you as parents for raising such amazing children. Have a wonderful holiday and we look forward to catching up with you next term.

Nga mihi nui

Lesley

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