18 February, 2005

Minister names taskforce to secure future of New Zealand Scholarship

Associate Education Minister David Benson-Pope today named the education leaders who will determine the future shape of the New Zealand Scholarship exams.

The group is made up principals, teachers and educationalists representing the major organisations with an active interest in senior secondary education.

"I believe these are the people with the necessary skills, integrity and commitment to identify what changes are needed to ensure the results of the exam in 2005 and beyond will be less variable," says Mr Benson-Pope. "We will be taking action to ensure the New Zealand Scholarship delivers outcomes in line with public expectations."

The following people form the panel: Graham Young - Secondary Principals' Association of New Zealand (Tauranga Boys High School) Kate Gainsford - Post Primary Teachers' Association (Porirua College) Don McLeod - Post Primary Teachers' Association Principals' Council (Mt Hutt College) Tim Oughton - Independent Schools New Zealand (Scots College) Ray Newport - New Zealand School Trustees' Association Professor Luanna Meyer - New Zealand Vice Chancellors' Committee Wharekura representative (to be confirmed).

The Minister has also nominated three principals to join the panel. They are: John Morris - Auckland Grammar School Margaret McLeod - Wellington Girls' High School Roger Moses - Wellington College

In addition, Mr Benson-Pope has added two educationalists to the group for their expertise in statistics and examinations systems. They are: Professor Terry Crook – Co-director Education Assessment Research Unit, Otago University Dr John Langley – Dean of Education, Auckland University

Mr Benson-Pope confirmed that the group would meet Monday in Wellington and as earlier indicated, would have two weeks to report back.

ENDS

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