Areas of Learning 

Literacy

At Randwick Park School we want our students to be passionate and motivated readers and writers. We aim to foster an enjoyment of reading while teaching the skills required to be successful, confident readers. The focus in junior school (Year 1 and 2) is around building tamariki’s knowledge of letter sounds and blends so they have the knowledge to sound unknown words. As the students progress through the school the focus moves to understanding what they read, using information and thinking critically.

Each term teachers do reading assessments to gauge progress and to identify the next steps. This is done either through a running record or twice yearly comprehension and vocabulary assessment (PAT) with Year 5-8 students. When taking Running Records teachers are looking to see how accurately children read, how closely they monitor their own reading and self-correct their errors, if they understand what they are reading and their fluency.

Tamariki have the opportunity to write using a variety of different text types. Where possible writing is linked to Discovery (inquiry learning) so it has a meaningful and relevant context. The writing genre changes depending on topics by may include recounts, persuasion, instructions, poetry and descriptions. Each year seniors take part in Rehu Tai (speeches) and our top students participate in a competition.

Twice yearly students do an independent piece of writing with is level and moderated by teachers. This is used to identify next learning steps.

Mathematics

At our school, we use Oxford Maths, a programme grounded in the science of learning and aligned with the expectations of the Te Mātaiaho | Mathematics and Statistics curriculum.

Oxford Maths follows a mastery approach, ensuring every student can experience success. Mathematics is taught through real-world contexts that make learning both meaningful and engaging, while explicit instruction enables teachers to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners.

Every child has their own workbook, available in both print and online versions, so they can follow along and track their progress. Alongside this, children use fun and interactive online tools that provide instant feedback and help teachers see where extra support or challenge might be needed.

Learning is structured in a simple cycle:

1. Getting started – Teachers introduce the topic with clear goals so everyone knows what they’re learning.

2. Checking in – A short quiz at the start shows what children already know and helps teachers group students for learning.

3. Learning together – Teachers explain and model new ideas, then guide students through practice and problem-solving.

4. Celebrating progress – At the end of each topic, a quick check shows how much children have grown and what their next steps might be.

Most importantly, our Maths programme is about more than just numbers—it’s about building confidence, curiosity, and a positive attitude toward maths, so every child can enjoy success. Our students also participate in interschool maths competitions such as Mathex, Kiwi Kids Competitions and NZ Maths Week, where we are proud of their achievements and results. We believe that all of our tamariki can become confident and competent mathematicians.

Reggio

The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy, this approach is student-centered and uses child-led, investigative learning. At RPS we work to encourage independent thought and strive to provide an environment for students to develop and create. Our tamariki provide direction into their own learning and work through our inquiry cycle to develop in depth thinking.