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Page 2 of Achievements as Rere School Principal |
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Information and Communication Technology All students have been introduced to many new computer
skills while carrying out word processing, using computer drawing
tools, CD ROM and Internet information searches, Logo programming,
interactive fiction and problem solving programmes, scanning and
digital photography. This learning opportunity began in 99 through the implementation
of the first stage of an I.C.T. plan that I put together for the
school upon arrival. During the 98/99 break a network of 9 machines
and supporting technologies was set up. This work was done by myself
and (including the computers that belong personally to Vanessa and
I) effectively increased the ratio of computers to students from
1:56 to 1:3. This addition to the school's resources has been used
as a powerful learning tool and given pupils access to the future. All classes have taken part in health programmes and activities
that are focused on building self-esteem and recognising the individual
differences in others. Both parents and teachers have commented on the positive changes they have seen in student interrelations. Music programmes have been developed and performance
standards raised. Students are now able to perform many songs playing
guitar, marimba, glockenspiel, recorder, percussion and singing.
The Rere School Band is now in full swing, with 8 to 10 students on guitar, 12 on Marimba, 5 to 10 on recorders, several on percussion and all singing out with good pitch. The students have worked very hard, often continuing within their own break times to practice music conventions and learn tunes on multiple instruments. They are now able to perform confidently at cultural and social gatherings. Currently we are working towards an inter-school performance
and a street performance to raise money for our school trip to Auckland
at the end of this year. We have also introduced Dance and Drama into classroom programmes and students have shown a fantastic improvement in confidence and self-esteem. Drama and Dance often draws out the quiet ones and parents were initially very surprised to see the radical positive changes in their student's ability to jump up front and perform. As a classroom teacher within fitness I like to lead by example and run, skip or train with the students. I also like to introduce personal challenge and the idea of progress being just as important as attainment. This has had a powerful effect upon fitness levels, especially students who normally do not participate. When the teacher runs with you over a challenging cross country course giving encouragement, the whole activity takes on a new meaning. Last year after two terms the senior students were running a very hilly 1.2 km course every second day and doing 40 to 100 sit-ups, press-ups and dips on the days in between. Students saw their progress and became passionate about fitness for life. With regard to sporting skill acquisition I believe in the importance
of expertise and I have worked hard to develop and maintain my skill
in many area. We have focused on particular skills and technique
acquisition and have given students the opportunity to experience
success. The resulting work speaks for itself. |
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