Sabbatical report: The actions, activities and conditions of school leaders that contribute to effective Māori student achievement

In this sabbatical report, Vanessa Pitt, Principal, Ruahine School, Dannevirke, investigates the actions, activities and conditions of school leaders that contribute to effective Māori student achievement and/or improvements in Māori student achievement; and in Māori students achieving success, as Māori.

Vanessa found that within her school and her sample of schools with a similar Māori profile the focus of these principals was raising student achievement, and raising Māori student achievement was a significant factor in Annual Goals and professional learning. However, although the focus was on teaching and learning the concept of “Cultural Competency” had not been considered.

Questions/Things to think about

Vanessa questioned her year 7 and 8 students about what they, as Māori, wanted to see more of in school. She was surprised when the overwhelming response was te reo Māori.

What do you think your students would say?