Learning Programmes

Curriculum

We have been implementing aspects of the new curriculum over the 2008 year. There will be a major focus in 2009 to ensure we understand it and have it implemented fully as part of our curriculum delivery for 2010.

The school follows the National Curriculum as prescribed by the Ministry of Education at present. The seven essential learning areas are English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Technology, The Arts, Physical Education and Health.
Our major focus is on Literacy and Numeracy in accordance with national priorities. The school employs specialist teachers for teaching ESOL and reading. We are on a Literacy Professional Development Contract for 2008/9 to ensure we give out teachers the best knowledge and skills to effectively teach our students.
We deliver the curriculum through an Integrated approach using an inquiry method. We call this ItAW (Inquiry the Avondale Way) We support our students to use key thinking skills to inquire about their learning and facilitate this approach through all units of work. We integrate the curriculum into our units of work, with Maths, Health and PE and Reading often standing alone.

Participation in School Activities 

Physical Education activities are part of the National Curriculum. It is expected that all children take part in all these activities unless there is clear evidence of a health problem. A note from parents is required to explain the reason for non-participation. For long-term exclusion a medical certificate is required.

Computers

The school has a computer suite of 16 HP computers, a laser and 2 colour printers, scanner, digital cameras, a data projector and server. Classes are timetabled into the computer suite and work here is integrated into the unit studies. All rooms have a computer and are networked. All teachers, support staff, students and their parents are required to sign an Internet Safety Agreement. Classrooms all have one networked computer and as they become available we are working down through the Senior School placing a second computer in each class.


Successmaker

We are now fortunate enough to have purchased this popular programme to assist students who need extension in various areas or who struggle with various areas of the curriculum. We work the students in groups of five for half an hour, four times a week. They work in up to three areas, spelling, reading, or maths at levels that are set through an initial test and then managed as they work through the different courses. The programme informs the teachers where they are up to and what areas they are struggling with. The programme self adjusts if it is to easy or to hard for the students as they work through the courses.

Sports

Sport is an important part of the physical education programme and each child is expected to take part and to learn skills to the best of their ability. Opportunities to play against other school teams occur throughout the year.

Reporting to Parents

We are committed to sharing students' progress with parents and caregivers. Interviews are held in Term One and Three and a report goes home in Term Two and at the end of the year. Informal interviews may be requested if teachers need to speak to parents or caregivers about a student's work or behaviour.