The Auckland school also took out the award for Excellence in Engaging. The Judging Panel praised Manurewa Intermediate School’s leadership team for its transformative and educational leadership.
In 2008 it implemented a structure which set out to improve the quality of teaching, upgrade their physical environment and instil a love of learning in their students. The team’s endeavours have brought about significant changes across all areas of the school.
The other winners are:
- Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Invercargill Middle School, Waitakere College
- Excellence in Leading – Te Kōhanga Reo Ki Rotokawa, William Colenso College
- Judges’ Commendation – Halswell School
Ministry of Education’s Deputy Secretary for Early Learning and Student Achievement, Ellen MacGregor-Reid says: “These finalists and winners have been through a rigorous selection and judging process. They have been judged to be among the pre-eminent education practitioners in New Zealand.
“They have set the highest standards in their work and it is making a real difference for the children and young people in their communities.
“The winners and finalists represent a snapshot of the excellent work going on in our communities to improve the educational outcomes and aspirations of ngā ākonga (students). My congratulations to all the winners and finalists.”
This was the fourth Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Awards, attracting more than 140 entries.
The award for Excellence in Governing was not awarded by the judges and no finalists were put forward for the Focus Prize.
The winning entry in each category received $20,000 and a professional development opportunity.
As the winner of the Supreme Award, Manurewa Intermediate School received an additional $30,000 plus an opportunity to represent New Zealand education.
Finalists also received a financial award to acknowledge their contribution to education. The winners’ stories will be shared across the sector so that others can benefit from their experiences.