Students In Years 7 And 8

The Education Review Office has released a new report: Students in Years 7 and 8.

Acting Chief Review Officer Karen Sewell says that the middle years of schooling are very important ones for children.

“Transition between schools and between different stages of education can disrupt students’ learning. Between the end of Year 6 and the beginning of Year 9, most of New Zealand’s children make at least one change of school. This is at a time when students are experiencing rapid growth and development as they begin the transition from childhood into adulthood.

“All schools in New Zealand have a vital interest in the education of these students. In terms of provision, the diversity of schooling structure in New Zealand raises questions about the best arrangements for educating Years 7 and 8 students.”

Years 7 and 8 students currently attend full primary schools (33%), intermediate schools (52%), composite schools (3%), restricted composite (middle) schools (2%) and Year 7 to 15 secondary schools (15%).

ERO’s report focuses on the quality of schooling for students in the different types of school they attend at this key stage.

In its report ERO discusses each type of school, the transitions between schools and

different levels of education, and the issues raised for supporting students during this stage of their education. The report gives examples of good practice and identifies the benefits or drawbacks of different kinds of school structure. ERO did not find a strong relationship between the type of school attended and the quality of education.

Copies of the report have been sent to all schools.
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