OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
How will RBHS address my sons’ educational needs?
RBHS has programmes for students of all abilities, from the ACE programme for gifted students to the ELL programme for those with low readings ages. Streaming in Year 9 and 10 allows us to design differentiated programmes in core subjects. The Diligence class as in Years 9 and 10 allows hard-working students to focus on academic achievement. The Special Learning Centre has teachers and teacher aides to help those students with learning difficulties and the ESOL department helps those whose first language is not English.
My son is academically gifted, how will he be challenged to maximise his potential at RBHS?
When students enter Year 9 they are streamed to allow us to better meet their academic needs. There are two classes in the Accelerate stream and these students follow specially designed Gifted & Talented programmes. The accelerate programme continues in the senior school, with the ultimate aim of preparing students for the Scholarship examinations in Year 13.
What is the ELL Programme?
RBHS has special programmes to help students with their literacy. We recognise that having good comprehension and writing skills is a big part of success in all subjects. Identified students in Years 9 &10 undertake the “Enhancing Literacy for Learning” (ELL) programme with outside specialists working alongside classroom teachers. We also offer the English Holiday Academy Programme.
Will my son get homework regularly?
Yes. All students are expected to complete homework as this reinforces classroom learning. Parental support in the homework centre is available before and after school.
Is exam revision available?
A number of revision classes are run. Tuition is provided free and offered in the teachers’ own time.
Is there Future Pathways support and guidance?
All students receive Career and Pathways education and have the opportunity to use our excellent Pathways Centre. Students study careers modules in class and all house group teachers are trained to deliver careers education. Senior students have the opportunity to become involved in the Gateway programme.
What opportunities are there outside the classroom?
There are a huge number of possible activities. RBHS offers a wide range of sports, academic and cultural activities. In addition all staff are required to be involved in the co-curricular programme, so if you have an area of interest that we don’t cover, ask and we may be able to find someone to help you out!
Do we offer co-educational opportunities?
Yes. There is a regular exchange of students with Rotorua Girls’ High School for cultural and social activities.
What about second chance education?
Year 14 and adult students are welcome.
What can parents do to help their sons?
Research shows that the single greatest influence on a boy’s academic achievement is the attitude of his parents towards education. Please take the time to ask your son about his school work and encourage him to complete homework.
How will I know how my son is doing?
Senior students receive three reports a year, while Junior students receive four reports a year. Reports are posted in Week 6 for Juniors and Week 8 for Seniors, of each term. Following each report there is a parent teacher conference, where parents have the chance to talk to teachers about their son’s progress. Outside of these times parents are encouraged to contact the appropriate Dean when they have a concern.
Are there any school fees?
Yes. All students are charged a General Activity Contribution to assist with activities not funded by the Ministry of Education. This fee provides sporting and Cultural activities, affiliation fees, sports gear, library books, the school magazine and other purposes as approved by the Board of Trustees.
Is their financial assistance?
Yes. In cases of hardship, assistance with uniform/fees is available on application to the Principal.
Is there a Former Students’ Association?
All school leavers are encouraged to retain contact with the school through the Former Students’ Association. Enrolment forms are available from the office.
What is the advantage of a boys’ only school?
Years of international research has demonstrated that there are significant differences between the ways boys and girls learn. Being a single sex school allows us to design our programmes and lessons to address boys’ needs and preferences. In addition all our resources can be devoted to subjects that boys want to do. |
