Hereworth School

Education institution number:
4108
School type:
Full Primary
School gender:
Co-Educational
Definition:
School with Boarding Facilities
Total roll:
293
Telephone:
Address:

118 Te Mata Road, Havelock North

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Hereworth School

Introduction

ERO reviews of private schools are significantly different in process and more limited in scope and reporting than those for state and state-integrated schools, focusing as they do on the Criteria for Registration set out in clauses 2 to 6, Schedule 7 of the Education and Training Act 2020. 

Clause 9, Schedule 7 of the Education and Training Act requires the Education Review Office (ERO) to review private schools and to report to the Secretary for Education on whether each school meets the criteria for registration. 

More information about ERO reviews of private schools can be found on ERO’s website Private and independent schools | Education Review Office (ero.govt.nz)

The criteria for registration are that the school —

  1. has premises that are suitable, as described in clause 3, Schedule 7; and

  2. usually provides tuition for 9 or more students who are of or over the age of 5 years but are under the age of 16 years [clause 2(b), Schedule 7); and

  3. has staffing that is suitable to the age range and level of its students, the curriculum taught at the school, and the size of the school (clause 2(c), Schedule 7; and

  4. has equipment that is suitable for the curriculum being delivered or to be delivered at the school (clause 2(d) Schedule 7); and

  5. has a curriculum for teaching, learning, and assessment and makes details of the curriculum and its programme for delivery available for parents; and
  6. has suitable tuition standards, as described in clauses 2(e), (f) and 5, Schedule 7; and
  7. has managers who are fit and proper persons (as described in clause 6, Schedule 7) to be managers of a private school; and 
  8. is a physically and emotionally safe place for students (clause 2(h), Schedule 7).

When an ERO report identifies an area within the criteria for registration that is not meeting the criteria at the time of the ERO review, that will be reported, the Ministry of Education will be informed, and the Ministry will follow up the issue with the school. 

Ko te Tamaiti te Pūtake o te Kaupapa The Child – the Heart of the Matter

ERO’s Judgement

  1. The school has premises that are suitable as described in clause 3, Schedule 7

Meeting

  1. The school usually provides tuition for 9 or more students who are of or over the age of 5 years but are under the age of 16 years

Meeting

  1. The school has staffing that is suitable to the age range and level of its students, the curriculum taught at the school, and the size of the school

Meeting - Refer to conclusion below

  1. The school has equipment that is suitable for the curriculum being delivered or to be delivered at the school

Meeting

  1. The school has a curriculum for teaching, learning, and assessment and makes details of the curriculum and its programme for delivery available for parents

Meeting

  1. The school has suitable tuition standards as described in clauses 2(e), (f) and 5, Schedule 7

Meeting - Refer to conclusion below

  1. The school has managers who are fit and proper persons (as described in clause 6, Schedule 7)

Meeting - Refer to conclusion below

  1. The school is a physically and emotionally safe place for students

The school management and the principal attested that they have taken all reasonable steps to meet their legal requirements and/or adopt efficient good practice to ensure the school is a physically and emotionally safe place for students.

A safe place is one in which risks to student safety are regularly assessed and evaluated with a view to eliminating, or at least reducing, harm. A safe place is one where clear policies exist and are acted upon to eliminate or minimise harm.

ERO’s judgement is based on the quality, intent and regular review of the school’s policies and procedures.

Conclusion

ERO has determined that the Hereworth School meets the criteria for registration as a private school. 

During the onsite phase of the review process, ERO identified actions that the school was required to undertake in order to meet the criteria for registration as a private school set out in clauses 2 to 6, Schedule 7 of the Education & Training Act 2020.  These actions have since been addressed.

During the onsite review 

ERO identified that Hereworth School did not meet the criteria for registration as a private school set out in clauses 2 to 6, Schedule 7 of the Education and Training Act 2020. 

In 2019 the school managing body (board of trustees) appointed a principal as a professional leader of the school. The board is required to ensure that the appointee is registered with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and has a current practising certificate and has undergone an assessment conducted by the Ministry of Education as a fit and proper person to be a manager. 

Neither of these requirements were met for the principal in the period between the appointment in 2019 and the onsite phase of this review in August 2022. 

The status of the principal as unregistered, and over a period of time, had implications for the issue and renewal of teacher practising certificates. The school did not follow Teaching Council requirements to endorse valid practising certificates. 

ERO could not be assured that these endorsements meet requirements as outlined by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa.

In order to meet the registration criteria, ERO recommended that the board take action in relation to the following areas: 

  • the board must ensure that it does not permanently appoint a person to any teaching position if the person does not hold a practising certificate
    [Section 92(2) Education and Training Act 2020]
  • request an assessment by the Ministry of Education to determine that the principal meets the criteria as a fit and proper person to be manager of a private school [clause 6(1), Schedule 7 Education and Training Act 2020]
  • ensure safety checking of children’s workers, and periodic rechecking of existing children’s workers which includes police vetting
    [Children’s Act 2014, and regulations 5–8 of the Children’s (Requirements for Safety Checks of Children’s Workers) Regulations 2015]
  • ensure that the professional leader (or a senior staff member authorised by the professional leader) who endorses teacher applications for issue and renewal of practising certificates holds a full practising certificate.
    [Teaching Council of Aotearoa Regulations]

During the onsite phase of the review ERO verified that an appropriate appointments policy is now in place.

Since the onsite phase of the review

The principal:

  • has been assessed by the Ministry of Education that they meet the criteria as a fit and proper person to be a manager of a private school

  • has completed the application process to the Teaching Council of Aotearoa and is now a registered teacher with a full practising certificate.

The board:

  • has ensured that the safety checking of children’s workers, and periodic rechecking of existing children’s workers was completed

  • in consultation with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa, has retrospectively approved the practising certificate of the senior manager named as professional leader.

Consequently, ERO has determined that the school now meets the criteria for registration as a private school. 

Other Matters

Provision for students in the school hostel

The school hostel accommodates up to 56 male students, 21% of the school roll. The hostel owner has attested that all the requirements of the Hostel Regulations are met. At the time of the review there were 50 boarders residing at Hereworth ranging from years 5 to 8. 

Boarders are accommodated in dormitory style rooms and communal areas are used to gather for socialising and recreation. Boarding routines, duties and general expectations are clearly communicated to parents and boarders. Routines and positive relationships with hostel personnel help boarders to settle into the daily rhythm of boarding life.

In discussion with ERO, boarders shared they appreciate and enjoy the opportunities provided by the facilities and the hostel staff, and the relationships that are formed through the hostel experience. 

Hostel management promotes a safe physical and emotional environment that supports learning for students accommodated in the hostel. 

Phil Cowie
Director Review and Improvement Services (Central)
Central Region - Te Tai Pūtahi Nui

25 November 2022

About the School

The Education Counts website provides further information about the school’s student population, student engagement and student achievement. educationcounts.govt.nz/home

Hereworth School - 30/08/2013

1 Background

The Chief Review Officer has a statutory duty to report on the performance of private schools throughout New Zealand.

ERO reviews of private schools are significantly different in process and more limited in scope and reporting than those for state and state-integrated schools, focusing as they do on the Criteria for Registration set out in section 35C of the Education Act.

Section 35I of the Education Act 1989 requires the Education Review Office (ERO) to review private schools and to report to the Ministry of Education on whether each school continues to meet the criteria for registration. The schools are privately owned and the legislative requirements are significantly different to those for state and state-integrated schools. Private schools are not required to follow the National Education Goals or National Administration Guidelines.

What does apply in place of the legislation imposed upon state schools by the Education Act is the contract between the persons paying for the tuition of the child at the school – the parents – and the school authority. Those are matters between the parent and the school’s governing body. More information about ERO reviews of private schools can be found on ERO’s website www.ero.govt.nz/Reviews-Process.

The criteria for registration are that the school —

a)has premises that are suitable, as described in section 35D; and

b)usually provides tuition for 9 or more students who are of or over the age of 5 years but are under the age of 16 years; and

c)has staffing that is suitable to the age range and level of its students, the curriculum taught at the school, and the size of the school; and

d)has equipment that is suitable for the curriculum being delivered or to be delivered at the school; and

e)has a curriculum for teaching, learning, and assessment and makes details of the curriculum and its programme for delivery available for parents; and

f)has suitable tuition standards, as described in section 35F; and

g)has managers who are fit and proper persons (as described in section 35G) to be managers of a private school.

2 Criteria for Registration

Hereworth School, located in Havelock North, is a private preparatory school for Years 1 to 8 boys. The school, owned by the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu, promotes Christian values as part of its special character.

The school’s managers attest that they comply with the provisions of section 35G in respect to their being fit and proper persons to manage the school.

Suitable premises and equipment

The premises and equipment are suitable.

The historic building overlooks expansive, park like, well-maintained grounds. A range of facilities enables boys to enjoy their recreation and develop their physical skills.

The high quality learning environment and facilities promote the wellbeing of boys and teachers. Classrooms provide comfortable learning spaces.

The chapel is the cornerstone of the school and is a physical statement of the school’s special character.

The board has a carefully considered approach to planning the upgrading of facilities.

Suitable staffing

The school has suitable staffing. All teachers are qualified and registered. Specialist subjects are taught by teachers with appropriate skills and knowledge.

The board seeks to employ teachers who have an understanding and appreciation of boys’ learning. There are equal numbers of male and female teachers.

The recently appointed deputy headmaster has introduced an inquiry element to the structured appraisal process that supports staff development.

Suitable curriculum

The curriculum is suitable.

Since ERO's 2010 review the school has adopted the Hereworth Curriculum. This is based on the essential learning areas and key competencies of The New Zealand Curriculum. It is designed to provide a model for the development of a 21st century learner. Science is becoming embedded as a core learning area.

There is an increased emphasis on the development of a curriculum specifically for boys’ learning. Christian values are strongly promoted. The recently appointed chaplain teaches a religious education programme that has been devised by the New Zealand Anglican Schools Office.

The curriculum should continue to embed a bicultural perspective to teaching and learning, as outlined in the school’s Treaty of Waitangi policy and charter.

Suitable tuition

Suitable tuition standards are evident in this school. Teachers are well organised and interact positively with boys. They employ appropriate strategies to facilitate active, engaged learning. Students are confident, articulate and show genuine enjoyment in all aspects of school life.

There is an expectation that all boys will undertake the full range of academic, cultural, social, spiritual and sporting experiences to the best of their abilities. This expectation is supported by the specialist teaching in purpose built classrooms.

A positive tone in the school supports the learning of all boys. Teachers are respectful and affirming. They take advantage of the appropriate professional development available.

3 Other Statutory Obligations

There are good systems in place for the school’s managing body to be assured that its other statutory obligations are met.

4 Other Matters

Provision for international students

The school is a signatory to the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students (the Code) established under section 238F of the Education Act 1989. At the time of this review there were two male international students attending the school.

The school has attested that it complies with all aspects of the Code.

ERO’s investigations confirmed that the school’s self-review process for international students is suitable.

Provision for students in the school hostel

The Hereworth boarding house, Rainbow, is owned by the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu and administered by the Hereworth School Trust Board. It accommodates 24 boys, 11 percent of the school roll.

The boarding accommodation is of a high standard. Dormitories are attractive, warm and spacious. Boys personalise their own spaces and take responsibility for maintaining them in a clean and tidy condition. Meals are nutritious and menus provide a range of options. There is good provision for study and recreation.

Boarding at the school provides boys with good opportunities for leadership and the development of social skills. Clear routines and boundaries promote good student conduct and self management.

The boarding master provides good leadership for the team responsible for the wellbeing and care of boys. He meets regularly with boys and maintains communication with parents to consider concerns and discuss ideas. Supervision and health and safety matters are well organised. Generally, boys are happy and feel well cared for.

ERO recommends that the trust board provides boarders with more formal opportunities to give feedback about their boarding experience. This could be used in an ongoing way to inform board decision making.

5 Conclusion

On the basis of the information obtained during the review, ERO considers that Hereworth School meets the criteria for registration as a private school set out in the Education Act 1989.

Joyce Gebbie

National Manager Review Services Central Region (Acting)

30 August 2013

About the School

Location

Havelock North

Ministry of Education profile number

4108

School type

Full Primary (Years 1 to 8)

School roll

201

Number of international students

2

Gender composition

Male 100%

Ethnic composition

NZ European/Pākehā

Other European

Māori

Other ethnicities

78%

12%

5%

5%

Special Features

Hostel and Chapel

Review team on site

June 2013

Date of this report

30 August 2013

Most recent ERO report(s)

Private School Review

Private School Review

Private School Review

August 2010

June 2007

May 2004

Hereworth School - 07/06/2017

Findings

On the basis of the information obtained during the review, ERO considers that Hereworth School meets the criteria for registration as a private school set out in the Education Act 1989.

1 Background

The Chief Review Officer has a statutory duty to report on the performance of private schools throughout New Zealand.

ERO reviews of private schools are significantly different in process and more limited in scope and reporting than those for state and state-integrated schools, focusing as they do on the Criteria for Registration set out in section 35C of the Education Act.

Section 35I of the Education Act 1989 requires the Education Review Office (ERO) to review private schools and to report to the Ministry of Education on whether each school continues to meet the criteria for registration. The schools are privately owned and the legislative requirements are significantly different to those for state and state-integrated schools. Private schools are not required to follow the National Education Goals or National Administration Guidelines.

What does apply in place of the legislation imposed upon state schools by the Education Act is the contract between the persons paying for the tuition of the child at the school – the parents – and the school authority. Those are matters between the parent and the school’s governing body. More information about ERO reviews of private schools can be found on ERO’s website www.ero.govt.nz/Reviews-Process.

The criteria for registration are that the school —

a)has premises that are suitable, as described in section 35D; and

b)usually provides tuition for 9 or more students who are of or over the age of 5 years but are under the age of 16 years; and

c)has staffing that is suitable to the age range and level of its students, the curriculum taught at the school, and the size of the school; and

d)has equipment that is suitable for the curriculum being delivered or to be delivered at the school; and

e)has a curriculum for teaching, learning, and assessment and makes details of the curriculum and its programme for delivery available for parents; and

f)has suitable tuition standards, as described in section 35F; and

g)has managers who are fit and proper persons (as described in section 35G) to be managers of a private school.

Hereworth School is a private preparatory school located in Havelock North. It caters for 205, Years 1 to 8 day and boarding boys. The school is owned by the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu. Christian values are a key part of the school’s special character.

The school’s manager(s) have attested that they comply with the provisions of section 35G in respect to their being fit and proper person(s) to manage the school.

2 Criteria for Registration

Suitable premises and equipment

The premises and equipment are suitable.

The premises are well maintained. Continuous upgrading occurs. A consultant has been contracted to assist with a property development plan.

The chapel is the cornerstone of the school and is a physical statement of the school’s special character.

All classrooms are well equipped, including a wide range of specialist rooms. These are bright, stimulating and the furniture is progressively upgraded.

The imposing historic building overlooks spacious park-like grounds that facilitate the provision of a wide range of sporting and recreational activities.

Suitable staffing and tuition standards

The school has suitable staffing.

All teachers are qualified and registered. Specialist subjects are taught by teachers with appropriate skills and knowledge. A new and expanded senior management team has identified priorities for ongoing improvement.

Teachers participate in a sound appraisal system that is consistent with the Education Council expectations. The system is subject to constant review to provide professional support for teachers.

Tuition standards are high. Teachers have high expectations for every learner. Students are confident, articulate and show genuine enjoyment in all aspects of school life.

Suitable curriculum

The diverse curriculum is suitable for teaching, learning and assessment. The wide range of subject areas provides many opportunities and experiences for the boys. Specialist learning areas across the school include hard and soft materials, technology, music (instruments and choir), drama, sports, science, te reo Māori, Japanese, hauora (physical education and health), and religious education.

The student graduate profile, published in the parent handbook, documents expectations for all leavers. Student leadership is valued. Achievement is celebrated.

The bicultural curriculum is valued by the students and staff.

Teachers in each of the three syndicates work closely together and share ideas and information school wide. Teachers are improving their use of assessment information to make appropriate judgements of students’ achievement. Through the moderation of student work, teachers are familiar with expectations at each level. The next step is for further investigation and analysis, at a school wide level, to enable closer monitoring of trends and patterns over time.

The learning support team responds appropriately to the identified learning needs of students at risk of not meeting the school standards.

3 Other Obligations

There are good systems in place for the school’s managing body to be assured that its other statutory obligations are met.

4 Other Matters

Provision for international students

Hereworth School is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2016 (the Code) established under section 238F of the Education Act 1989. The school has attested that it complies with all aspects of the Code.

At the time of this review there was one international student attending the school, and no exchange students.

The quality of pastoral care and education for the international student is suitable. The student is involved in a wide range of school activities and is well integrated into the school community.

The school recognises that it is timely to review its systems for monitoring provisions and outcomes for international students under the current Code.

Provision for students in the school hostel

The school hostel, Rainbow, accommodates 40 students, 20% of the school roll. It is owned by the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu. The hostel owner has attested that all the requirements of the Hostel Regulations are met.

Boarding accommodation is of a high standard. Dormitories are attractive, warm and spacious. The students personalise their own spaces and take responsibility for maintaining them in a clean and tidy condition. There is good provision for study and recreation.

Boarding at the school provides students with a range of opportunities for leadership and social skills development. Clear routines and boundaries promote good student conduct and self management.

5 Conclusion

On the basis of the information obtained during the review, ERO considers that Hereworth School meets the criteria for registration as a private school set out in the Education Act 1989.

Patricia Davey

Deputy Chief Review Officer Central (Acting)

7 June 2017

About the School

Location

Havelock North

Ministry of Education profile number

4108

School type

Registered Private School (Year 1 to 8)

School roll

205

Number of international students

1

Gender composition

Boys 100%

Ethnic composition

Pākehā

Māori

Other ethnic groups

86%

10%

4%

Special Features

Hostel and chapel

Review team on site

March 2017

Date of this report

7 June 2017

Most recent ERO report(s)

Private School Review

Private School Review

Private School Review

August 2013

August 2010

June 2007