To the Parents and Community of Hillcrest High School

These are the findings of the Education Review Office's latest report on Hillcrest High School.

Hillcrest High School is a large, urban. co-educational secondary school located in Hamilton. The current roll is 1619. Students are drawn from a range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Twenty-two percent are Asian, thirteen percent identify as Maori and three percent are from Pacific backgrounds. There are 45 international fee-paying students.

Since the last review there have been significant changes in the membership of the senior leadership team with the appointment of a new deputy principal and two new assistant principals. A new board chairperson took up his position in 2009.

In Years 9 and 10 the results of standardised testing in aspects of literacy and mathematics show that a high proportion of students are achieving at or above nationally expected levels.

National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) edata for students in Years 11, 12 and 13 indicates that, overall, students continue to achieve at levels comparable with those of students in other schools, both nationally and in relation to students in schools of a similar decile. The date for 2009 shows that Maori students achieved at levels below those of other students in the school, and below that of Maori students nationally.

A significant number of individual students continue to achieve at high academic levels. Forty-one students obtained subject scholarships in 2009, with three students achieving outstanding scholarships in English.

The most significant positive features of the school that were identified in this review are:

• a supportive and inclusive culture and atmosphere throughout the school, which promotes student engagement and success;
• a rich and extensive range of opportunities for students to achieve success and follow pathways appropriate to their needs and aspirations in academic, sporting and cultural endeavours;
• a strong focus on providing support for students' learning and wellbeing and maintaining a safe physical and emotional environment; and
• teachers who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their curriculum areas, have a positive and professional approach to their practice and who maintain respectful and affirming relationships with students.

An important priority for the principal and senior leadership team is to further develop and implement a shared philosophy and procedures about the use of achievement information. In addition there is a need to address issues relating to the achievement of Maori and Pacific students.

The principal has had a key role in successfully promoting the positive relationships and inclusive culture that is evident in the school. He demonstrates a high level of commitment to the school, promotes the interests of students and actively supports a wide range of school activities. Other members of the senior leadership team work with the principal to ensure the effective management of the school. A team of experienced heads of faculty and heads of department provide effective educational leadership for curriculum delivery in their areas of responsibility.

Board members provide sound governance for the school and strongly support staff and students. The new board chairperson is ensuring a more active role by the board in determining the strategic direction of the school.

Future Action

ERO is likely to carry out the next review within three years.

Review Coverage

This report provides an evaluation of how effectively the school's curriculum promotes student learning - engagement, progress and achievement. ERO's evaluation takes account of the school's previous reporting history and is based on:

• what is known about student achievement information, including the achievement of Maori and Pacific students;
• decisions made to improve student achievement using assessment and self-review information; and
• teaching strategies and programmes implemented to give effect to the school's curriculum.

ERO also gathers information during the review to contribute to its national reports. The national reports are published on ERO's website. If your would like a copy of the full report, please contact the school or see the ERO website, www.ero.govt.nz