Loosen Government’s influence on curriculum: Principal

Asked if there is anything she would like to see improved in the education/school management sector, St Mary’s Catholic School, Papakura, principal Audrey Kippen said, “the most important thing that I would love to see changed is for the government agenda to loosen their grasp on the curriculum and focus more on resourcing and funding”.

“New Zealand needs time to embed a stable curriculum that integrates local history, truth and tikanga, while staying abreast of world knowledge and technological developments. We have committed and well-qualified teachers who need to be respected for their knowledge about how children learn best and should be given trust and freedom to be creative in delivery,” Ms Kippen said.

“A school’s focus, naturally, has to be academic success and ongoing professional development for staff, but not at the cost of engagement in learning (for both children and teachers). Learning should be fun, authentic, creative, contextual and innovative.

“Children should not only be expected to absorb new knowledge, but should have more opportunities to learn outdoors, to be active with hands-on experiences to support their learning and to use their new knowledge to solve problems through critical thinking and skilled action.”

Ms Kippen suggested that digital devices should be used “sparingly and only to appropriately facilitate learning and solutions”.

“I would love to see bookwork and handwriting taking a higher priority than it has had in recent years. Like most teachers and educational leaders, I would also like to see more resourcing, funding and professional development provided to support, nurture and engage children with neurodiverse needs. Schools cannot be expected to be seen as authentically inclusive without this support.”

Ms Kippen said the “wonderful bonds of community at St Mary’s are a very special experience”.

“There is a wairua of respect and aroha, and the presence of God is palpable in our place, which nurtures a sense of safety and belonging for students, staff and whānau. It is a place where faith and love form the foundation and inspire all we do. It is a place for children to flourish.”

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Principal in Person: Audrey Kippen, St Mary’s Catholic School (By Helena O’Neill/Franklin Times)