Principal's comment 13th August 2025

Kia ora koutou,

Over recent months, the Ministry of Education has been consulting on proposed changes to the NCEA qualification system. While change in education can bring both opportunities and challenges, I want to reassure our community that good quality teaching and learning remains at the heart of what we do at our school. The tools, structures, and assessments may evolve, but our commitment to effective teaching, deep learning, and student success will not waver.

At the core of high-quality education are the 5 C’s of learning – Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Character. These skills are timeless. They equip our students to thrive not only in examinations but in life beyond school. Whatever form NCEA takes in the future, these will continue to be the foundation of our teaching and learning programmes.

Industrial Action and Its Impact

The Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) has announced strike action for 20 August, as well as rolling strikes beginning the week of 15 September. This action will inevitably cause disruption to students’ routines and learning. While this is not something any of us want, it is important to recognise that our teachers are essential to the future of New Zealand. They deserve fair recognition and conditions that allow them to continue delivering the quality education our young people need.

Our Commitment to Student Progress

Despite the challenges these disruptions bring, we will do everything in our power to maintain the academic progress of our students. This may involve adjustments to lesson planning, providing extra learning resources, and ensuring that key learning objectives are met in preparation for assessments and examinations.

We appreciate your support and understanding as we navigate both these proposed NCEA changes and the current industrial action. Together, we will ensure our students continue to receive the best possible opportunities to achieve their personal excellence.

In more positive news congratulations to the following students who have been achieving amazing feats in both sport and the academic fields.

Kyra Marett - Won the Tour of Manawatu.

Oliver McKeown - Selected for the Junior Crusaders Camp.

Chanalee Walter-Duncan - Accepted into the Victoria University of Wellington international study programme where she will study for Years 2 and 3 at the University of Cambridge in the UK.

Tom Batty and Cullen Bolt - 1st in New Zealand Secondary Schools fencing competition in Taupo.

Nga mihi nui

Marcus Cooper

Principal

Geraldine High School