23 July 2009

These are the findings of the Education Review Office's latest report on Henry Hill School.

Henry Hill School is an urban contributing school (Years 1 - 6) situated in Napier.  The school has a positive ERO reporting history.  At the time of this review in May 2009 the school roll is 300 students, 72% of whom are Maori.

The board funds a wide range of programmes and initiatives to assist students experience educational and social success.  Inquiry-based learning using information and communication technologies (ICT), whanau classes and safe school environment initiatives are three aspects the board and staff have further developed since the August 2005v ERO report.  The board should continue to review the impact of all initiatives to ascertain their effectiveness in improving student achievement.

Externally referenced student achievement information, collected and collated by senior managers, indicates that many students experience difficulties in literacy and numeracy.  Teaching strategies focus on student engagement within a safe school environment.  The board funds additional staff to increase the ratio of adults to students.  Support staff also assist in each class.  The board has released the assistant principal from classroom teaching to work alongside students and families who require support.  The board receives information that indicates that this strategy is having a positive impact on students' engagement with learning.

Students demonstrate a sound understanding of teachers' expectations for learning and behaviour.  They are generally engaged and focused in class.  Classrooms are settled environments.  Students and teachers engage in a wide range of outdoor physical activities during breaks.

The school homework centre is well supported by the community.  IT operated before school each day.  Since the beginning of 2009, over one third of students in the school have attended the centre and participated in computer assisted learning.

The board and staff value students' cultural heritage and their achievement in a wide range of learning areas.  In particular, they celebrate students' achievement in art, music, and drama.  A significant number of students participate in cultural experiences.

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

ERO is likely to carry out the next review in three years.

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.