A very good turnout at our meeting this week, and lovely to welcome Meryl Monk who joined us for the evening.
Our guest speaker Deidre Alderson from the Ministry of Education has held many roles in the Primary Sector of Education, her last role being the principal of Willowbank School in Botany, a large primary school within a diverse community. When she left the school to take up a senior role at the Ministry, her school had 127 different ethnic groups!! This is a real example of the changing face of New Zealand society.
Deidre talked to us about current shifts in New Zealand education and signaled that it was acknowledged by the Ministry that, after in depth review, some of the programmes and changes of the past have not always been successful. Literacy is an example of this and so it is time now for a reset.
An updated curriculum is on the way and one area that has had a considerable change is history. It is designed to ensure that children really do understand the history of New Zealand but more importantly their own community and how that reflects and sits withing the national and international community. An important part of the teaching and learning will be Maori history and how that sits within New Zealand ‘s history at all levels but particularly the local communities.
There is frequently a disconnect between the school curriculum and how students can put into practice their knowledge and learning. Businesses have been part of the reset which included a review of NCEA.
Deidre spent time to explain to the members that some secondary schools are now focusing on getting students into trades, a small beginning but a start. This will have a very positive impact on the future of many of our young people and also the job market particularly in the area of the trades. There has been a shift in society and it is recognized that university is not the only way forward. Young people are seeing for themselves that trades are a very real option.
A review is also underway for Special Needs, and Learning Support resource is currently being unpicked and reviewed. At the very top end of student needs only 1% receive ongoing resource funding. This is not adequate; a much higher level of resource is needed.
Deidre responded to a query regarding the teaching of Maori in schools, speaking about the value of teaching Maori as part of their history and the importance of the mother tongue. Students quickly adapt to a second language and sometimes even a third language often at a very early age. While not mentioned by Deidre my own observation is that many students, including Maori are fluent in at least 2 languages sometimes 3. Sadly, I am only fluent in 1.
The issue of New Zealand’s current drop in results in the TIMMS and PISA tests was also raised. This is recognized by the Ministry, and that has been part of the drive for the reset in the curriculum, however what must also be acknowledged is how well New Zealand students do when using their initiative and they excel at problem solving. A strength of the New Zealand system.
A very entertaining presentation, Deidre’ s relaxed style was very much appreciated and clearly a topic of great interest given the number of questions and comments made by members.
Some reminders:
John Sanders reminded members that they can donate to Rotary Foundation when they pay their subscription. He is working with John R to see if a line can be added to your invoice.
Garry Donoghue updated members on the allocation of PHF awards. The Guidelines will be updated by the membership committee accordingly.
If you would like to join a small committee that will look at ways that the club can support Howick's 175th Anniversary celebrations this year please let me know. Harjit Singh and Rob Mouncey have accepted the roles of Ambassadors working with the organizing Committee to promote the event.
Carole Ansley asked for any further interest in helping sell Poppies on 22nd April, please let her know.
Just a reminder to everyone please let David Owen know if you are not attending the meeting. The caterer plans the menu according to the numbers; therefore, you will be charged for the meal even if you do not attend and have not put in an apology. It is important that she has accurate numbers.
The Cocktail Party will be on Saturday 12 March 3 -6pm. I look forward to it.
Our next meeting will be on 22nd March when we will hear from Glenice Yeoman.
Kia Tupato, Kia noho haumaru Take care, stay safe.
Madeleine East MNZM.
President.
