Community Survey - Community Survey - Queenstown Primary School ~ Quality, Perseverance, Success

Board of Trustees » Community Survey

SECTION 1 - GOVERNANCE

1. The Board provides effective strategic direction and governance of our school

2. The Principal provides effective leadership and support

Comments:

From what I have seen, heard and read, the Principal is very committed in leadership and support
I have no issues with either of these questions
No idea if Board of Trustees provides effective direction
Who are the Board?
Happy with school processes at organised events, education and identification of learning difficulties that my child has
Don't know too much about the Board of Trustees and what they do. Apart from elections we never hear of them
Not completely sure of the role of the Board of Trustees. Not sure if I didn't get this information or received it and didn't realise.
The Board of Trustees provides very little info or feedback to parents.
Going by this survey I would assume Board of Trustees do but being new all this I don't really know
Only at school for last 3 weeks so not in a position to judge
Don't know who is on Board
We have never had any contact or information regarding Board of Trustees
I suspect strategic planning is hampered by MOE
Mr Western is awesome
We don't really hear a lot about what the Board is doing. The 3-yearly newsletter comments are our only link so don't feel very informed
I'm not aware of the Board of Trustee's direction or governance. Is that public?
Principal seems to be effective in the limited dealings I've had

SECTION 2 - NEW FAMILIES TO SCHOOL

3. I was provided with all the information I needed about the school's educational approach, vision, goals and values

4. I was provided with all the information I needed about how to enroll and administrative matters

5. The staff I dealt with were friendly and approachable

6. Your child's school visits were handled well

7. The school did its best to ensure the first day at school went well

8. Our Prospectus is helpful in informing us about our school

Comments:

Parents of unsettled new entrants need to be allowed to spend time with the child in class to help settle them, especially when new entrant has had very little contact with school
Not applicable but very happy 6 and 4 years ago
We appreciated our child had the opportunity to meet the Principal. It gave her assurance that he was available at any time. A very warm welcome but it needs to be consistantly seen that he is around and available
I think parents need to know about religious studies. We didn't know until our son bought home a handout
Great improvement from when my first child started school
Kindergartens inform parents about the enrolment process. On school visits parents get information on first day procedures, i.e. visit to Principal, news time, how long to stay in class etc
When notices are sent home, say what the activity is, i.e. snow farm is practice skiing on cross country or? And that "touch" is a game like football. Assume you are talking to someone new
I feel that parents were strongly discouraged from staying on the first day (and visits). I had to push hard to be allowed to stay even for one hour. I didn't feel I could stay any longer at all. This is the only time I have felt this as overall the school has been great.
Felt that as parents we should be provided information prior to start of school of "ideally" where a child should be when they start, i.e. write name, recognise alphabet etc. Recognise this is perhaps info we need from a kindergarten given contact at start of school is too late
Info obtained entirely via website prior to coming to school
Generally very pleased but was a little disappointed that I wasn't told that my child would be receiving an award and missed out on seeing him get it. His teacher was nice but very "busy" at the time and gave the impression of being less than approachable. It would help too if new parents are told that what happens on the bus is not the school's problem. We had some bullying issues and it took some time to discover that the school did not have "authority" on the bus. It would have been helpful to know who to go to when there are problems before the kids start using the bus.
The parents evening for new entrants was very helpful
Maybe a formal approach to how the year's work is set out for the child so we would know prior to our kids as to what input we need to focus on and when
More than two visits for a five year old if the parents feel they need it. Parents know their kid's needs the best.
Prospectus - haven't seen one. Would be nice to have a bit more warning to start date of children going from kindy to school

SECTION 3 - OFFICE AREA OF OUR SCHOOL

9. The office staff are friendly and helpful

10. The information I require is available on request

Comments:

Very friendly and obliging
Have felt at times when dealing with the office that I should just "know" how things work - but as a new parent - I don't, so some patience and understanding and explaining would be appreciated
Some staff are not so friendly
Always pleasant and helpful
Can be abrupt on the phone
Office staff are consistently knowledgable, friendly and professional
Very hot and cold. Its a huge effort at times when you require assistance. Borderline aggressive as in defensive if you question something. Customer service skills are lacking.
Very efficient and lovely staff
All the ladies are helpful and friendly
A very well run office
Staff are always friendly and willing to help
Certain staff can be rude and unapproachable. Info is often slow to come
A little bit scary some of the staff
A great help whenever we have required
Think the office staff are amazing
They do a great job and are always willing to help
When snow falls in town could you post open/closed status on website immediately?
Office staff I've found inconsistent. We cannot rely on messages given over the phone actually reaching our children. However this year no problem
Office staff would benefit from a friendlier phone manner towards parents
I asked the office staff to give a message to my child (by phone). Sometimes my child didn't get the message. I'm not sure that the staff forgot or my child didn't remember.

SECTION 4 - COMMUNICATION

11. I am happy with the level of communication between the school and home

Comments:

Well informed. Plenty of notice.
Would be good to have a plan of timetable for term, including topics to be covered when sports are on (ahead of time)
The weekly newsletter is very informative
Weekly newsletters and website (upgraded version) are great.
Generally good but not informed of lunchtime club she attends, its guidelines, what outcomes are anticipated.
Weekly newsletters and notes from teachers include lots of information.
School reports - I need an assessment or written info about extra tuition. Extra spelling that my daughter does with specialist teachers.
There have been some gaffs with information sent out. Website could be better utilised and better designed
Through phone, internet and print we are well informed
Not much communication between teachers and home. Maybe a weekly notice on the website from each teacher
Other than weekly newsletters teacher seems to hand everything out late or very close to deadline
More notices could be emailed. Parents should be welcomed to email teachers
Notices are timely and clear
I love the emailed newsletter

12. I am happy with the level of communication with my child/ren's class teacher(s)

Comments:

Parents visiting class is a definite advantage in improving communication
Lovely teacher, friendly and dedicated
Often unsure what is happening
Approachable and informative teacher
Previous teachers had a vocation. Not receptive to parent help in class.
Very approachable teacher
Now that I no longer take them or pick them up its more difficult
Outstanding work by both teachers - Years 2 and 6
3-way parent/teacher/child meeting each term would be cool
Some teachers more approachable than others
Lack of communication when awards are given
The teacher could be busy with other students but its really good
I am somewhat disappointed there was no mid year report
Teachers are friendly and approachable
Teacher is willing to communicate by email which is excellent
This year great. Last year poor
Feel welcome to raise and discuss concerns
I don't go to school often. So there is little chance to have communication with teacher
It does seem minimal when your children travel on the bus, but you don't have personal contact with teachers

13. I am happy with the level of communication on my child's progress and learning

Comments:

Teacher dependent - some are better than others at communicating your child's progress or lack of progress
Honest and true
Excellent 3-Way conference
Can find grading system vague and confusing
Good feedback on progress and learning
Learning Journals are comprehensive, reports detailed and its easy to phone
Both of my childrens teachers are fabulous with communication
I have often heard and agree with other parents that childrens skills and talents are stunted to other childrens levels
General communication is good. Specific information about opportunities or challenges my child is facing not always
Would prefer detailed written reports more frequently
All teachers communicate issues etc with our children
Only two meetings with teacher per year for five-ten minutes is not enough
This varies between each teacher. Some are more accommodating than others
I need to remember that I can ask if I want more info
I want the teacher to take care of my child
Yes, but would like to know how he/she compares to others
We feel teachers are often bound to make everything seem positive. We would like more clarity on our child's strengths and weaknesses
This year great. Last year poor.
Don't hear anything on a regular basis. Miss the mid-year report. Assume we would hear if there were problems
Would like more comments sent home during term
Defintiely would be more useful

14. I am comfortable approaching the following members of the School:

Comments:

I have never met these people (Board of Trustees)
Don't know who most of the Board of Trustees are
Open, honest, helpful and dedicated
Don't know who is on the Board of Trustees or what their individual roles are
Wouldn't really know how to approach the Board of Trustees but am sure they would be approachable
Not sure who the Board of Trustees are
PTA and Board of Trustees not easily accessible or visible
Don't know who the Board of Trustees are
Don't know or see the Board of Trustees or PTA
Do not know how to get in touch with Board of Trustees
Not sure who they are - perhaps send out info sheet
I am comfortable approaching all of the above. This does not mean the response will be professional
Don't really know how to approach the Board of Trustees or PTA
Don't really know who the Board of Trustees are
Need contact details of PTA and Board of Trustees in newsletters regularly
I haven't had any communication with Board of Trustees
We don't know who the Board of Trustee members are

15. Changes to Learning Journals (inclusion of data that tells us your child is achieving and next learning step) has been beneficial to my child's learning

Comments:

Challenging
Good to see where she is and comparisons
Not seen this in journals yet
Not much feedback between journal entries
These are great to see my child's progress
Last one for Year 2 was very disappointing, previous have been great
Next learning step is great. A reminder of homework and direction
Haven't noticed changes
Yes, but need info from teaching specialists
Would appreciate more info on next step and how parents can support that step
Although its hard to guage whether they are continuing to progress at an age-appropriate/year-appropriate level
Not enough work displayed on maths and english
Nice to have samples that aren't "perfect" but reflect work accurately. Reports are missed. Perhaps need to talk to High School and see their reports as are simple, informative with great detail
I would rather see my child's books come home at the end of each term
I find Learning Journals in the past better than now
Could have next step adhered to desk lid or similar so they can measure progress regularly against aim - themselves.
We feel we are not informed until the end of the year report what our child's weaknesses are. This year both kids teachers have been great.
The old sample books had more information in them but I know that they took a lot more time
Usefulness limited by our lack of total understanding of what the data meant. Miss the mid-year report. Feel was more useful as covered more bases in an understood and known way

16. There is value in participating in the Three-Way Conferences between parent, teacher and child

Comments:

This is dependent on the teacher
If there are real issues with a child's progress or behaviour there also needs to be a time set aside with teacher and parents
We all get to speak and share
Depends on the kid and the issues I guess
Excellent for home/school communication
Easy for child that is a high achiever. More difficult to do with child with more concerns in positive manner but express the relevant concerns
Much better including the kids in the process
Very valuable to have child involved in own goal setting, identifying achievements and weaknesses
Yes, the child hearing first-hand from teacher is extremely powerful
These have been very useful
I don't think its necessary for the student to be there
I prefer a term report rather than a summary of 3-way conference
Child is uncomfortable. Feels like could be in trouble with parent and teacher
We find it very beneficial to our boy's learning
Would like five minutes without the child present
More of these would be great
How about conferences without the child to discuss personal subjects
I still think at primary level that conferences would be more beneficial just between parent and teacher - not child
Value yes - if performed in the way it was set out. Asking child about their strengths and weaknesses
Great as the child gets older but not so sure how beneficial ours was with our new entrant daughter
Can't always talk candidly
Interview times need to be longer
If we want independent learners they need to set the goals
It should be one on one with teacher and parent. I don't feel my child benefits from these at all. 3-way conferences are better with the older kids
Would like mid year report as well
My experience with this process was that it was totally uninformative and a waste of time
The Learning Journals are fine but we feel there needs to be a mid year report. Using percentages would also be beneficial we believe
I really don't think that having our child there is productive to this process and I would prefer not to take him
I would have liked to be addressed by teacher as well without child present
Helpful chance to talk through issues and catch up
Would like more feedback on child's progress
Would like a longer time with teacher and some time just parent and teacher conversion
I think the 3-way conference is a good initiative but I also think it would be beneficial to have just parent/teacher interviews for questions and answers that are best not talked over in front of the student

SECTION 5 - GENERAL

17. Would your child/children stay at Queenstown Primary School at Year 7 and 8 if we had these year groups at school?

Comments:

We live at Lake Hayes Estate so until we find out if it will cost
The new school is a lot closer to where we live
We will be transferring to Remarkables Primary School
Not enough school involvement in Maori culture at QPS
Separate intermediate school preferred
She wants to go to WHS where her sister is
What's on offer? More information required (4x similar comments)
Strongly agree with children staying at Queenstown Primary (8x similar comments)
Great for development and responsibility for kids
Only if there were no Year 7/8 at Wakatipu
Feel 11 year olds are too young to be thrown into high school environment
WHS makes a strong case for proving Year 7 and 8s with a new learning environment and engaging their learning with new subjects, teachers and structures (2x similar comments)

What programmes do you feel would be essential to be provided for Year 7 & 8?

Social Studies, Practical Science, Food Tech, ICT, Woodwork, Metalwork (28x similar comments)
All subjects as on offer at Wakatipu High - home room base with choices/options for non-core subjects (15x similar comments)
Art, drama, sport (3x similar comments)
Science - need labs (10x similar comments)
Team sports (4x similar comments)
Basic Lifeskills programme (3x similar comments)
Sewing, music, a "creativity" class (3x similar comments)
PE indoors - stadium
History, geography and literature
Language - French, Japanese, German (4x similar comments)
School trips to city/camps (3x similar comments)
Keyboard skills
Leadership programmes/social sciences (2x similar comments)
Needs a point of difference for Year 7 and 8
NCEA info
Any preparation for high school (4x similar comments)
Astro science
A gifted and talented programme with proper assessment
No information provided - very poor communication
School social
Typing and computer skills - research and library skills

18. Would you spoort the introduction of an optional school uniform?

Comments:

If at a reasonable cost and not just available at one expensive store (2x similar comments)
Would rather have no uniform
Have one or don't have one. Not a mixture of street and uniform
Needs to be compulsory (9x similar comments)
Provided its cheap and easy to launder
Discriminates against poorer families
School uniforms are much more expensive - don't believe they would be optional. Will end up being enforced
Creates a sense of pride and ownership of their school and their appearance (4x similar comments)
Keep it optional
Support the idea of one
Good for sporting trips, sports exchanges, spelling quiz
A single item - eg fleece top with school logo would be okay
As long as it isn't cheap and scruffy looking like the high school. Good quality

19. Would you support the introduction of a compulsory school uniform?

Comments:

As long as it is reasonably priced (15x similar comments)
I thought there was an optional uniform. Fleecie. Uniform should be compulsory or not at all
Most definitely (6x similar comments)
Cost is a major factor with a lot of families - there needs to be funding for families who need support (4x similar comments)
Yes, we find it too expensive to keep buying clothes for school. A one-off purchase of a uniform would be cheaper (2x comments)
Introduce over 2-3 years so in three years complete school in uniform
How about for Year 7 and 8 only? (2x similar comments)
More so than an optional unfirom. Good for kids to be in one uniform (5x similar comments)
For senior students
The children love the freedom and comfort of their own clothes. Parents have to pay a lot for the WHS uniform
Makes everybody equal (2x similar comments)
A lot of cost for people moving in and out of Queenstown
What children wear to school has little benefit, if any, benefit to learning
i really, really want this and everybody I talk to feels the same
Keep it simple - ice breaker, trackpants, tee shirt, shorts, skirt
Strongly oppose any kind of uniform

20. The School is meeting my child's needs

Comments:

One of my children can get a bit bored and lazy when he is not challenged enough (4x similar comments)
Normal classroom - yes. Extension for gifted areas - no
Discovery is only once a week. Losing interest (2x similar comments)
Very satisfied. Particularly reading
One of my children appears to be struggling with some subjects and we are having to do a lot of extra work at home. Would appreciate more input from school/teacher (2x similar comments)
Our child is doing Kip McGrath to bring him up to speed
Teachers do a good job of individualising teaching to kids
Teachers have different levels of ability to engage, motivate and see the individual children
I keep commenting on his learning problems and they are not addressed or taken seriously
I have concerns over the gifted and talented programme - lack of consistency in classroom
I believe the school is working hard on this

21. The classroom environment meets my child's needs

Comments:

General issues - telling tales, bullying, taking sides
Sometimes classrooms and foyer areas are not kept clean and tidy - educate students
Some senior classes are small, with big kids
I would like to see more individual identification of students level of study
I don't believe bright kids always get enough extension (2x comments)
Great efforts being made by the teachers
There's some difference between Kiwis and the students from overseas
Pleased to see with new leadership that some of the least effective teachers have moved on
Much more fun, responsive, controlled and positive environment

22. The outdoor environment meets my child's needs

Comments:

Everything available. Great variety
Cleanliness and tidiness, students need direction to keep their environment tidy. Use bins for rubbish
It is too cold to sit outside in winter (3x similar comments)
Great new seating
Some new equipment in senior playground seems a bit hard for the kids. Not challenging - just impossible.
Seating area for lunch times needs improvement
Some difficulty with not being allowed to play with peers who are in middle school
I do not believe there is enough supervision during play and lunch (3x similar comments)
Need more boy things outside, trees, bull-rush
Adequate but could be better
Lots of grass/field space
Need more space to bike, more green fields for juniors to play soccer etc
Disappointing the alternative ski programme was dropped (2x similar comments)
Need more places for outside play that are dry - how about painted games on the concrete?
More big trees needed
Can't use field all winter. Need safe soccer goals
Middle school requires more equipment - update the monkey bars
Junior playground boring after two weeks
Some competitive and non-competitive options, e.g. cross country should offer both options. A lot of pressure on children to perform

23. The ICT environment meets my needs

Comments:

Progressing well
Number of devices is excellent but some of them need upgrades (2x similar comments)
Loves the Mac computers - no patience for PCs
A greater ratio of computers to children would improve this
My child's classroom is poorly resourced compared to others. No active whiteboard - computers don't work well
We feel too much time and energy is spent on computers

24. Our new website is useful to me

Comments:

Don't really use it (2x similar comments)
Info available at the touch of a keyboard - literally
New website is so much better (3x similar comments)
I remind myself of the term dates and other info. It's always great to see the event photos
Nothing essential, but not that easy to find info. Improvements possible
Could be better designed and easier to use
Usually but sometimes slow to update
Great website
Huge improvement on old site
For what I am involved in at school there is no information on the website
Blogs by teachers great idea but not kept up to date by teachers

25. I would be willing to pay a school donation in 2010 of approximately $100 per child

Comments:

Starting the new school year is costly enough with what we currently pay for, and then Outdoor Education has to be paid in Week 2 or 3. when you have three kids it all adds up (4x similar comments)
This year paying $400 was a lot. Definitely worth it though
Depends on what the money is spent on (8x similar comments)
Why call this a donation? Is this not another fee?
Either education is free or not. i.e. public or private (2x similar comments)
We have the means - should not be compulsory
Will pay but would rather not
Don't we already? If not, then no (3x similar comments)
Only if all other fundraising stopped (5x similar comments)
I would struggle to find this (5x similar comments)
Incredible that QPS hasn't introduced a donation. I think many families wouldn't have a problem with a donation of this nature (2x similar comments)
Isn't education a right to all New Zealanders?
If things like technology improved
it is a delight telling friends in other places that we don't pay fees, but realise that some parents don't have time to fundraise that has allowed this
I'm already paying around $400. $10 is good
What is the premise for this? More information needed (10x similar comments)
Start this and the Government will stop more funding
Dependent on use and flexibility of payment (4x similar comments)
Only if it was compulsory
Would it improve higher quality teaching?
I think you should offer option of different levels of donation, e.g. bronze $100, silver $250, gold $500
Depends on parents support.
Not if I had to buy a uniform and still pay for the bus service that costs me $15 per week
Would like a bill at the start of the year with everything for the whole year on it, instead of having to send in money all year. Would be easier to budget for families
Prefer to pay for extra activities as they occur

SECTION 6 - RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Currently our School is formally closed for instruction between 9.00 and 9.30am each Wednesday. During this time a Religious Instruction programme is provided for students. This is delivered by members of various Christian religious groups in our community. They follow a programme developed by The Council for Christian Education in Schools. Boards have three choices when it comes to this programme. Continue as we are, move towards a morals and values based programme delivered by members of the community or the school includes morals and values as part of their programme.

26. Would you like to see the same programme continue in its current format?

27. Would you like to see a programme delivered by a community group that includes all major religions?

28. Currently the school includes morals and values within the classroom programme. Would you prefer to have this instead of Religious Education?

Comments:

I can see no point in having morals and values covered specifically on a Wednesday morning. But disagree strongly with Christian indoctrination. What century are we living in? (5x similar comments)
It's ignorant and arrogant to flaunt one religion in such a multi-cultural school (2x similar comments)
Religious instruction if it's to be tailored to each child should be the responsibility of the parents. General values and morals would be better in the classroom. (5x similar comments)
My children have really enjoyed this class / programme over the years, gaining knowledge and benefiting by it. (3x similar comments)
Religion is for parents to teach as they see fit, not at school (7x similar comments)
Needs to be morals and values / respect as programme (3x similar comments)
Some lessons have been too intensive - 'God-Fearing tactics'
Strongly disagree with Christian religious programming - support only teaching of all major religions or morals and values (9x similar comments)
If it is to be taught at all, it should be holistic and embrace all religions around the world by people with teacher training and not a bunch of untrained people with little knowledge (9x similar comments)
My child has developed some rather extreme religious views this year and has quoted religion to me quite frequently which is a slight concern
Happy with the way it is now (5x similar comments)
As it is, currently inappropriate in educational setting. I am concerned about what my kids have been coming home with - very short sighted
The teaching of Christian beliefs needs to be removed from the classroom environment immediately. Prime learning time is being wasted. (2x similar comments)
Ask the teachers and kids if they like the current format. These are two separate issues I think, but both have their place and value to a child's development, and should be left to parent's choice.
I am disappointed children cannot stay home if school is formally closed. Have heard kids are bullied at the Library.
I feel Bible in Schools is an incredibly valuable part of my child's needs.
We aren't religious - but I think an understanding of religion is good (5x similar comments)
I don’t believe parents are fully aware of the content of this programme.
Primary school children far too impressionable to have mythology taught as fact - they will want to believe
I see morals and values education as separate from religious education. School could teach morals and values. A community group could teach comparative religion as a separate subject.
I would like more information on what is taught currently (4x similar comments)
I feel it should be changed to late afternoon
Would have sent my child to St Joes if I wanted religion!
Provide children with info and they will make personal choices that are informed as they grow.
There is nothing lost and everything to be gained from having Christian education in the schools even for people not of the Christian faith. The values for kids are great
No lollies or chocolates to be given at religious studies- bribery! We aren't allowed to send these in lunch boxes as requested (2x similar comments)
Would much prefer Te Reo or NZ History to religion - get rid of it.
I'm unsure of whether a community group could deliver a non-biased view of more than one religion but this should be closely monitored.
Time to move on - if RI remains class teachers need to stay in the room. Police checks?
Even though there are non Christian children at our school, they have chosen to live in a Christian country, therefore they should learn about this as part of living in our country.
We think teachers 'pass' on morals and values. BIS might be the only opportunity some kids get to learn these.
Our child is young and impressionable, and doesn't need to be told Mum and Dad don't love him as much as God does.

OTHER COMMENTS

Please list the three things you enjoy most about Queenstown Primary School?

Well organised (3x similar comments)
Positive, relaxed atmosphere (16x similar comments)
The sense of community, despite being a big school (21x similar comments)
Assemblies! (and the kids involvement - grows their confidence) (22x similar comments)
Discovery classes - very important to challenge the kids that need it! (7x similar comments)
Diversity of cultural groups, openness of teaching staff (11x similar comments)
Outdoor Education - variety of sporting events, day trips, outdoor activities and camps offered (85x similar comments)
Having a specialist PE and Music teacher (14x similar comments)
Stewart Island (7x similar comments)
Making the most of our environment (8x similar comments)
School Skiing and Ice Skating programme (18x similar comments)
School Fair (2x similar comments)
Very clean grounds (2x similar comments)
Teachers - passionate and hard working, go the extra mile (42x similar comments)
Tutput is excellent. Use of technology eg: internet at school and home, school news.
Parental involvement (12x similar comments)
New house system
Essential, quality education made interesting by dedicated teachers. (6x similar comments)
Strives to make our children independent and proud of their successes.
Fun learning ways
Promotion of healthy lifestyles
Information to the parents (4x similar comments)
Size of junior classes
Location and proximity to other facilities (15x similar comments)
Free bus service (2x similar comments)
The music programme (9x similar comments)
The Health programme
Bigger school environment
Children are encouraged to be involved in all areas - lots of opportunities (10x similar comments)
Playground areas (2x similar comments)
Supportive and involving learning environment (8x similar comments)
Freedom of NOT having a uniform
Reasonable costs
Warm classrooms
Library (2x similar comments)
Students - the respect they have for adults as well as each other (3x similar comments)
My child's classroom is lovely - decorated with their artworks
Book Fair
Bible in Schools (3x similar comments)
PMP (3x similar comments)
Approachable principal (5x similar comments)
Excellent communication lines - the ways of getting communication is superb (8x similar comments)
Strong strengths in IT, computer knowledge. Kids have lots of opportunities here. (3x similar comments)
Improvements underway
Finally nice to see more seating for new entrants and Year 1's near their classroom
Classroom environment - open education approach (7x similar comments)
Lots of male teachers (2 x similar comments)
QPOS / Sports (7x similar comments)
Discipline is strong but made with love
No school uniform
The reading programme is fantastic - new entrants get a good jump start
The 3 Way Conference (2x similar comments)
They are very open to working with the special needs of my children
Open to change, up to date with what is going on in world, society and community
Variety of programmes - good balance of education, sport and creativity (4x similar comments)
Our current teacher
I am enjoying the Learning Centre and the PTA
The strong leadership shown by John Western and his staff.
Maths programme
Seeing the enjoyment and happiness on my daughter's face as she really loves school. Great environment for special days (like sausage sizzles etc)
No racial issues
Christmas entertainment

Do you have any suggestions for future development/changes at our School?

Absolutely lose the Christian studies. I honestly don't even know a Christian!
Don't change it if it's not broken! (2x similar comments)
More play areas for the children and a bike track
I fully support Year 7 & 8 at Primary School (5x similar comments)
I don't want to see it get any bigger. Capped at 450 - 500 students would be better. (6x similar comments)
Computer class. If Year 7 & 8 at school, giving them responsibility within school, eg: peer support
No mixed year classes
Smaller classes (2x similar comments)
Desperately need lots more parking. It is a joke the amount of parking spots available. It is stressful every morning and afternoon trying to find a parking spot. (11x similar comments)
Community vegetable patch / fruit trees - maybe even inter-house growing competitions (3x similar comments)
Shade sails for summer shelter
Uniform!!! (7x similar comments)
More computers for each classroom (2x similar comments)
Grass area for boys so they're not all hanging around the jungle gym area. Something to extend them in sports - not just hanging around getting stirred up.
Please keep Outdoor Ed week! Such a fantastic experience for all.
Lighter and brighter toilets with soap
You should add some great components to attract Year 7 & 8 (2x similar comments)
Need some form of fencing around the NE play area to keep children in and strangers out
Keep developing the music curriculum and drama
Get rid of religious education or make it more accountable and holistic (6x similar comments)
Teach languages earlier - not Maori - Spanish, French, Japanese, German
Keep the years together as you do for new entrants - not Year 5 & 6
The transition with FranktonSchool will need good governance, leadership, vision to keep focus and pride in the school (it's often greener on the other side of the fence!).
Keep Bible in Schools - our daughter loves this part of her school week.
Love the plans for new classroom block and amphitheatre
I believe it would be beneficial for children to be placed in classes that academically suit them - ie: maths classes for high achievers
More help for children who have learning disabilities.
More classrooms so not so cramped for one on one teaching space etc
To maintain and enhance community feeling and growth
Landscaping - improve physical environment
Better integration of the immigrants taught in an appropriate programme
School sports teams for Y 6 - 8. Participating in all that is available in Otago / Southland competitions. Representing your school makes you passionate about it. (2x similar comments)
More 'Discovery' based programmes. (2x similar comments)
Increase the size of the hall (2x similar comments)
More active encouragement of special interest clubs within school (chess etc) (2x similar comments)
Monitor lunch eating more.
Need better toilet facilities (2x similar comments)
Email all notices - our child lives between 2 split parents and email would ensure both parents know what's going on. If possible give further consideration to multi-home parenting. (2x similar comments)
Try not to have expensive activities as extra cost puts pressure on families trying to supply the basics. Could end up with kids missing out on things like skiing or camps.
Develop the grounds and gardens - how about some children's art work on external walls?
Great steerage, Mr Western. Please continue as now.
I would like to see streaming
Better education for boys - especially reading and associated problems ie dyslexia & Irlens.
Year 7/8 need to be treated with the independence and maturity that is given at high school
We are very concerned about the behaviour of boys - too physical. There is a bullying element that is not being addressed, particularly in junior school. On that front we think the principal is weak. Appreciate that Kia Kaha is being introduced this term but the school needs to go further.
Be careful how you manage the commercial side of advertising, school funding and promotion. This should be equal opportunity to all parties.
Maori should be some sort of priority in the school - culture wise (2x similar comments)
A behaviour management programme for those difficult kids and parents
I would like to have morning tea earlier
Year 4's should go to senior cross country
Structured sports during play / lunch times that involve all children so shy children not sitting alone. Really important in preventing bullying, loners and friendless kids. Develops self esteem and social development.
Need a greater balance with the arts programmes.
The information given to New Entrant parents is a little scattered and in my case not given.
Lack of information re: next year's plans for new school etc to parents. What's going on?
Would like to see more QPS sports teams instead of all sports being run out of school.
Would like to receive a mid-year report. I believe the old system of percentages is beneficial for parents.
Children should not have to sit on cold concrete at lunchtime.
Teach resilience and anti-bullying behaviour. Also strengthen leadership opportunities.
Kids eating warm meals during winter.

Do you have any concerns regarding the School?

Car parking! Totally inadequate. It is dangerous in pick up areas as the parking situation is so bad. People park anywhere - and a child will be badly hurt soon (20x similar comments)
Not particularly. The kids have been there a short time but all seems very good.
Lack of hard court play area in winter
More murals, nicer grounds.
More water fountains (2x similar comments)
More communication on the progress / non progress of child's achievements
More encouragement to be independent in their thinking and responsibility
Not happy about putting up a 'wish list' for books to buy as we feel pressured into buying books we don't want, need or can afford.
Allowing the junior school children to travel in cars that are not safety checked (ie: WOF & Reg) without car seats (which are recommended by Police until at least 8 years) with drivers that again are not checked for even a drivers licence. I believe this is a big safety issue.
I have heard there is a Kapa Haka at the school but no mention of it on the website or in any newsletters. Why is this?
Mostly safety concerns - vehicles and parking plus tourists wandering through the school (2x similar comments)
More open correspondence - when are the BOT meetings? Can anyone go? Seems secretive.
Feel quite strongly that spending years 7 & 8 at QPS would provide valuable leadership lessons to children - would be nice to have more certainty re: this issue (understand that this may be reliant on decisions made by the MOE?)
Yes, children playing or eating outside, in the middle of winter, need sheltered area to play and eat. Gorge wind lethal!
Would be good to see a school social worker or school counsellor - much needed
Religion is being taught. Not needed - better off having the likes of a budgeting skills class.
Don’t throw out Christian education for the sake of political correctness, it provides a sound, external, community based input with good values. Other cultural awareness, religious points of difference and appreciation can be taught as normal school curriculum.
Roll drop - decile rating change due to Remarkables School.
Progression of spelling teaching consistency across school.
Homework policy - this varies hugely from teacher to teacher
I would be very disappointed if Bible in Schools is removed from the school programme. This happened in England while I was at school and the result teaching on morals and values and religion was extremely uninspiring and confusing.
Bring back bullrush! (2x similar comments)
Perhaps a bigger teacher presence need during lunch times.
The dynamics of QPS will change with a shift in numbers and possibly staff movement. Hoping that the transition period with introduction of Y7 & 8 will go as smoothly as possible (3x similar comments)
More boys stuff - rough and tumble. Don't get too PC. Studies show boys that play rough perform better in the classroom - bring back games of old times.
I'm not sure about this new Kapa Haka programme
Special needs kids in class are fantastic, as long as it's not to the detriment of the rest of the class
Increasing student numbers in junior school. Keep numbers as low as possible. (2x similar comments)
Lack of a safe place for serious behaviour kids who compromise others learning
The teachers do not seem happy and may not be secure in their jobs. What will be the impact of Remarkables on QPS? How will the school restructure? (2x similar comments)
The Discovery programme has become a joke with regard to selection and there is a real lack of succinct information on what is going on. Is there a plan? (3x similar comments)
Teacher / pupil ratio needs to be lowered.
Gifted and Talented programme - concerns with how this is currently (2x similar comments)
I have difficulty with the years being mixed up. This has been a big issue for us with an older son and as a result we have moved him from the school. He needed to be with children his age. One year they were all older, the next year all younger.
Lack of warm water for hand-washing.
The uncertainty for the Year 6's and lack of information from MOE / school on what will become of them for next year. 16 school weeks left of this year! Will we get a decision? (4x similar comments)
Parking - could the council be asked if the parks behind the school near the kindy could be exclusively for school use
Try to keep some green space and play areas as you grow
Where was the parent consultation and information regarding Y7/8 intake. Where is the choice as there has been in the past? You have told us you want to hold onto Y7/8 but have no apparent plan - or not prepared to share one?
Only concern was not keeping parents around for the first day (or at least making them feel welcome to stay) - this relaxes the parent, which then relaxes the child.
Need monitoring of drop off zone and parking - especially during break / lunch periods
Shortage of space
Objectionable rubbish - beer bottles etc
Metal warratahs - an accident waiting to happen
I don't think teachers are concerned with bullying during lunch times and I hear that there are no consequences when this does happen (2x similar comments)
I have concerns about how some children can be 'labelled' as naughty or disruptive as this label stays with them regardless of what they do
No-one cares enough about the health of our children to address the issue of school buses running whilst waiting, causing anyone in the vicinity to inhale poisonous exhaust fumes
Ongoing costs for skiing, camps, trips, outdoor education etc far too high for most families
The swimming pool is not warm and old, a better facility for swimming would be great (2x similar comments)
Bright children not being challenged or catered for. Fear of them being forgotten in classroom and getting bored.
The feedback that filters through about Principal and lack of his understanding and ability to be flexible about children's and parents needs.
Losing the bus service when Frankton School opens up.
Future of staff retention when new school opens.
The seemingly biased view of the Board to make RE redundant due to the loaded questions.

Your children's comments on the school (if they are different from previous)

Loves the sewing club (2x similar comments)
Enjoy Outdoor Education Week, less walking, tramping, more like the water day, fun games. Like the camp out, rafting on lake.
QPOS
School is FUN!
Loves reading resources
Bigger school - more activities
I wish we could have a canteen
My daughter enjoys attending QPS!
Our children love school and their teachers are fantastic and very approachable
She loves the story writing and reading!
He is very perverse, smart and clever now.
She has some concerns about bullying
Loves the kind teachers and staff (2x similar comments)
The grass needs to be replanted
Our daughter would happily stay on as Y7/8 if opportunity arises. She loves Outdoor Ed, QPOS, all her teachers, Y6 camp and all the fantastic sporting opportunities that present themselves. I think QPS staff, PTA and the Board deserve a huge thumbs up - you are movers and shakers!
Want more balls, games and PE every day.
They are generally happy and making good progress.
Scary 1^st year at Primary School
Thanks for your hard work - it is appreciated
Cool school
Stewart Island, PE, Swimming Sports
More sports gear to use at playtime and lunchtime please
Great senior playground
Not enough fast-paced learning
We are very happy overall with the school (3x similar comments)
Likes recycling programme
A very good school. Very good teachers who help me learn things in maths that seemed hard before, but now seem easy.
I like QPS although I would like more programs on the computers and I would like clean desks
Enjoys reading and problem solving
Likes cross country, outdoor education, the new house system
For the last two years my child has had her teacher for 3 days of the week and a different teacher for the other days. This has been unsettling for her.
I would like it if we were allowed water bottles in the classroom.
Discovery programme - seems to be 'your turn' rather than 'gifted and talented'
Love PE - I wish that we studied more history, need more computers in the classroom
I think the school's a bit messy and we could tidy it up a bit
I think it's great that we have houses. Lets get badges for them!
Love the music classes / singing with Mr Hamilton! He's a huge asset to the school.
We should do more art and drama. Bring back the maths class (Mr Hill) type