Growing happy, healthy learners
Marfell Community School, which is set to celebrate 60 years of delivering quality education in 2021, is currently accepting enrolments for Years 1-6.
In this backdrop, the Taranaki Daily News took the opportunity to explore how the school has kept in step with the times, and how the teachers and staff at this institution are able to create opportunities to build future capability for our young people.
Set amid attractive grounds in the heart of the Marfell suburb of New Plymouth, between Maunga Taranaki and the sea, Marfell Community School is a small campus with a diverse, multicultural and growing roll.
‘‘Many parents are now choosing our school from out of the area as people hear about the quality and supportive programmes provided to our children,’’ says Acting Principal Kealy Warren.
‘‘Also, the area is experiencing considerable growth due to the new housing plan in Banks Street and this has contributed to roll growth.’’
At Marfell they take their responsibility as the community’s state primary school very seriously.
‘‘We understand our children comprise the future of our community and so the opportunities we make possible while at school, and beyond our gates are central to all of our success,’’ explains Kealy.
Education for the real world
Small classes and an abundance of space and diversity contribute to happy, friendly and calm children with little to no behaviour problems. Everyone has an attitude of gratitude. Making this possible are passionate dedicated staff who do not view the work as a job but rather a passion.
‘‘The curriculum is interest based,’’ says classroom teacher Shelley Mackay. ‘‘Interest-based learning ensures teaching responds to children’s strengths, abilities and interests, leading to engagement in learning. The aim is to inspire children to be creative thinkers and problems solvers – two vital skills in the modern world.’’
Much thought goes into the class composition. Most classes are composite – mixed years, a structure that affords the school flexibility in groupings, allows for further growth in school numbers, and maximises the strengths of teaching staff. This also enables the school to better meet the learning needs of students.
In recognising the unique position of Maori as tangata whenua, Marfell Community School endeavours to provide elements of instruction in Te Reo and incorporate Tikanga Maori within the curriculum delivery programme.