Key Competencies in the New Zealand Curriculum

Written by The Principal | 29 June 2010

The Habit of Mind Taking Responsible Risks helps develop the Key Competency of Managing Self.

This competency is associated with self- motivation, a “can-do” attitude, and with children seeing themselves as capable learners. It’s about making conscious choices of what we do and understanding the effects of those choices. Managing Self is about developing an understanding of ones personal identity, self awareness and their ability to be reflective.

Students who manage themselves are enterprising, resourceful, reliable, and resilient. They establish personal goals, make plans, manage projects, and set high standards. They have strategies for meeting challenges. They know when to lead, when to follow, and when and how to act independently.

Corinne Walsh (Acting Principal)

Community Engagement: Strategic Planning Meetings

Written by The Principal | 19 June 2010

Last Wednesday afternoon we had our third Strategic Planning Meeting around the Habits of Mind. The aim was to inform parents about what the habits are and why they are important for developing 21st Century Learners, how they are taught at College Street, and to give parents an opportunity to develop their understanding about what they look like in different learning situations. Much thought and preparation had gone into planning a session that would really engage parents and deepen their understanding of the Habits of Mind. I have to say, that I was disappointed to say the least, with the turnout of six parents. The next meeting has been scheduled for Term Three August 4th 3.15pm. This meeting will be around the Principle from the New Zealand Curriculum ‘The Treaty of Waitangi’.

I would like to say a big thank you to those teachers who presented and shared their teaching practices with us all, it made me proud to be a teacher at CSNS. We are lucky to have such a high calibre of dedicated teachers!

Key Competencies in the New Zealand Curriculum

Written by The Principal | 19 June 2010

The Habit of Mind Metacognition helps develop the Key Competency of Thinking.

Students who are competent thinkers and problem-solvers actively seek, use, and create knowledge by asking questions, being creative, critical and metacognitive. They reflect on their own learning, draw on personal knowledge and intuitions, are curious and ask questions, and take risks with their learning. They can use a range of tools to organise their thinking, reflect on and solve problems.

Hall/Auditorium Opening

Written by The Principal | 10 June 2010

Just a reminder that we are opening up the hall/auditorium complex this Thursday 10th June for half an hour from 2.30-3.00pm sothatwecanallgoinandhavealookat what has been happening, and see the potential this complex has for our school community. If you would like to have a look around please contact the office to register your interest prior to Thursday. We will all meet in the staffroom first then head over to the site. We look forward to seeing you all there!