Thursday, November 24, 2011

Exciting new photos

Here are some new photos taken today - 24 Nov 2011. We are excited by the progress being made, and hope you are too. Double click on the photos to enlarge them.
One of the teaching spaces. This shows how the glass doors
can be rolled back and the teaching spaces can be opened up.



Another teaching space, though this one has carpet already!
The central coridor in the classroom block.

Steps have been made at the top of Amesbury Drive.

A footpath will be constructed beside the driveway.

The Wellington City Council have started to install the playground.
The equipment which you see above is designed for preschoolers. More advanced equipment for 5 to 11 years olds will be arriving shortly. The playground will be open to the public when Amesbury School aren't using it during their breaks. 



Thursday, November 3, 2011

What does it take to produce a happy, motivated, creative human being?


What do you think?
This trailer finishes with the question that is at the heart of education:
What does it take to produce a happy, motivated, creative human being?
We asked this question of parents at our recent information/consultation session and this is what they said….

Environment:
Environments that are positive and welcoming, family-oriented, with clear boundaries and rules and consistent expectations
Safe physical and emotional environment where children feel supported, respected, unconditionally accepted, safe and secure
A balanced environment which provides enough structure but also allows for creative flow.
An environment where time is taken to really know the children – finding out what their strengths and interests are

Learningprogrammes/culture:
Exposure to the arts, sport, drama, public speaking
Strong focus on the basics/academics
A wide range of experiences, mixed age interaction
Recognising different learning styles
Inquiry Learning that is fun and recognises the value of play
Inspiring and stimulating
Opportunities for some responsibility-taking
The right resources
Focus on the setting and achievement of goals leading to intrinsic motivation
Freedom of choice (age appropriate)
Learning programmes that follow the interests and passions of children and develops it
Flexibility

Teachers:
Who are positive role models
Passionate, enthusiastic, supportive, nurturing, caring teachers who mentor children, and engender passion for learning in the children by their own passion for learning something new

Relationships:
Good communication and co-operation between home and school
A strong sense of community and social spirit – good friendships and good relationships

School Culture:
Acceptance of diversity and embracing difference, recognising the individuality of children – not labelling them
Celebration of achievements – big or small
Encouraging, strong sense of fun
Opportunity to try lots of things, make mistakes and learning from them
Healthy levels of challenge and competition– children carefully pushed beyond their comfort zone, but realistic expectations

Any comments? Tell us your thoughts….