Principal's Page
Kia Ora Friends
Keeping the Leading Edge in Changing Times
At Western Heights, we pride ourselves on being at least up with the play, and often well ahead. We introduced Structured Literacy and Numeracy programmes eight years before the Ministry required all schools to do so. In the same way, we introduced Phonics programmes for our little ones long before it was mandated by the Government. We innovate because we know what works for our children.
Despite our National Curriculum document being changed three times in three years, Western Heights continues to thrive. When we compare our achievement data against National Norms, we are doing exceptionally well. This is a notable achievement, especially given that almost two-thirds of our students are English language learners. Our data proves our teaching methodologies work.
The Changing Educational Landscape
However, the modern curriculum review has significantly shifted benchmarks, such as introducing complex concepts into Year 6 that were previously expected only in Year 9. Navigating these shifts is no small feat, particularly given the pace of change.
For example, previously, a core Year 8/9 proportional reasoning concept required students to solve word problems that asked them to find a total starting amount from a known percentage or fraction (e.g., if 75% of an amount is $24, find the total amount). This is now a Year 6 expectation.
Over the past three years, schools have had to manage three entirely different versions of the Mathematics curriculum. Because the new Ministry expectations have shifted so drastically, we – like most schools around the country – are adjusting to expectations that many of the nation's leading educational thinkers and researchers have described as unrealistic.
What This Means for Your Child
Given the shifts in the curriculum expectations for your child’s year level, you may see a change in your child’s progress or achievement compared to previous years.
Looking Ahead
It is a challenging landscape, but Western Heights is exceptionally well-positioned to handle it. We will navigate these new mandates with the same expertise we have always shown, ensuring our students do not lose their love of learning and remain confident, capable, lifelong learners.
On a Personal Note
I recently received the card shown at left. I hesitated to share it, but as a teacher, it made me realise just how important every class and every child is. To realise that those efforts 30 years ago are still impacting a person's life today is a pretty humbling - and challenging - thought.
Next Whānau Time - Friday 26 June:
The theme is "Glee at Showquest 2026". Everyone welcome. You can also follow along with our Live Stream on our Facebook page if you are unable to be here at that time. https://www.facebook.com/westheights.school
If you want to catch up on previous Live Streams and other school event videos, you can visit our Western Heights YouTube channel here: Western Heights YouTube Channel.
There are over 550 videos available to view, with more to come soon. It's a cool way to take a trip back through time, too.
As always, if you have questions or concerns about anything school-related, email me at macash@mac.com, and I will get back to you asap.
My very best regards to you all,
Ash Maindonald
Principal.
