Top marks for Rodney college

A favourable ERO report, plus the go-ahead from the Ministry to hold elections for a new Board of Tuestees, has lifted a cloud from Rodney College.

Principal Dave Ormandy says it’s time for the school to put the past behind it and build on its good progress.

Mr Ormandy was appointed at the start of the year after the school a period of instability following the sacking of its board, the appointment of a commissioner, and two principals moving on within 12 months.

From day one, Mr Ormandy says he and deputy principal Sonya Lockyer – also new at the start of this year – have concentrated on looking forward, creating stability and setting clear goals for monitoring and reviewing student progress. He says that as a result, the school has now regained the confidence of staff, students and the community.

The ERO report cites the school’s settled tone, improved student behaviour and more positive staff-student relationships. Good progress had been made towards building a solid foundation for continued school improvement and governance.

Mr Ormandy and senior staff won’t be resting on their laurels though.

“There’s always room for improvement and we’re constantly reflecting and reviewing how we do things,” he says. “But it’s a relief, like a cloud lifting, to know that we are on track in terms of what ERO wants. The extremely positive report gives a good indication of our progress.”

A timeline for the election of board members has been drawn up, with the new board expected to be in place by November 25. The college commissioner Collene Roche will stay on until then.

PHOTO: Rodney College Principal Dave Ormandy examines the school’s ERO report.