Excellent Teaching

SKILLED AND EXPERIENCED STAFF

We have a team of experienced and highly skilled teachers.  They are enthusiastic about their job, innovative and have a commitment to providing the very best for all students.

A PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY

The school is committed to an extensive on-going programme of staff development.  Staff keep up to date with curriculum and assessment changes and continually reflect on and explore different methods of teaching to meet the learning needs of all our students.  We value being part of a network of local Area Schools and also are currently a member of a cluster of Canterbury schools collaborating on Raising Achievement for All (RAFA).  We benefit greatly from working collegially with the other schools in the cluster.

PROMOTION OF KEY COMPETENCES

A variety of teaching styles are used.  Independence in learning is promoted and courses on how to learn are organised for all students from Year 9 upwards.  The independent Government agency responsible for checking schools, the Education Review Office, noted in a 2007 report that:  "In recent years, senior students have been succeeding at or above the level of equivalent schools in national qualifications."  "Teachers have reliable numeracy and literacy achievement data that informs planning and teaching.  Analysed data, available at the time of the review, indicated students in Years 3-9 are generally performing above their peers nationally in reading."  "Year 12 & 13 students told ERO that they appreciate the range of opportunities and experiences they have had during their time at the school.  School systems are adapted to provide a variety of appropriate courses for senior students.  An effective careers guidance network supports students to follow or discover a careers pathway.  Local businesses are involved in work experience programmes.  Students are well supported in the school when studying subjects available by distance education."

ENCOURAGEMENT OF INTER-SCHOOL PARTICIPATION

Oxford regularly participates in inter-school competitions held in Christchurch and North Canterbury such as Science Fairs, Cantamaths, Technology Challenge, Stage Challenge, Performing, Science and Social Studies Expos.