ERO Report
These are the findings of the Education Review Office's latest report on St Brigid's School.
St Brigid's School is an integrated Catholic school in the Wellington suburb of Johnsonville. It caters for students in years 1 to 8 from the Johnsonville and Newlands parishes. At the time of this review in June 2009 it had a roll of 300 students, of whom 49% are New Zealand European/Pakeha, 24% Filipino and 6% Maori. Others come from a range of cultural backgrounds and one third are English language learners (ELLs). The school has a positive reporting history with ERO.
The special Catholic character is promoted through the values of love, courage, inclusiveness and faith. It is evident through the caring relationships, which are evident among students, and between staff and students. Both students and staff appreciate the safe learning environment that is strongly influenced by the school's values and religious education programmes. Class routines are well established and students are settled, respectful and engaged in their learning programmes.
The principal provides effective professional leadership and models the reflective practice she expects of her staff within the school's learning culture. Teachers value opportunities to reflect on their practice through a variety of teacher meetings including the Quality Learning Circles, which have been recently established. Regular and comprehensive self review is a feature of school operations and curriculum implementation.
Many effective teaching practices, along with constructive self-review and quality assurance processes, contribute to high quality teaching and learning in many classes. Teachers have high expectations for learning and behaviour. A settled tone is evident and students are actively engaged in their learning. Many are welcoming, confident and articulate about the benefits of their school.
The school has reliable information to demonstrate that many students achieve at or above expectations for their year levels in reading, writing and mathematics. Students who are at risk of underachieving receive high quality, targeted assistance in both literacy and numeracy to accelerate their progress. The school has identified gifted and talented students and is providing them with increasingly suitable learning experiences.
The Board of Trustees demonstrates support for the principal and staff and commitment to continuous improvement. Its well considered strategic focus is maintained and strengthened by effective self review. Trustees use well?analysed student achievement data to set annual targets for improving the outcomes of students who have learning needs.
Since the 2006 ERO review the board has managed property development involving the completion of a new staff room, administration area, junior playground and new gardens. Its planned approach to property maintenance and development results in attractively presented and well-maintained buildings and grounds. Students benefit from access to a range of local facilities such as a nearby public swimming pool and sports ground.
Future Action
ERO is very 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 review the school again in four to five years.
Review Coverage
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. or you can go directly to the report on http://www.ero.govt.nz/ERO/reppub.nsf/MonthSchool/229F15CF43026867CC25763400190796/$File/3005.htm?OpenElement
