Media Release
For Immediate Release
Friday 5 May 2017
Canterbury Regional Finalists in 2017 Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Awards
Christchurch-based Halswell Primary School is among the finalists at the 2017 Prime Minister’s Education Excellence
Awards.
Ministry of Education Acting Deputy Secretary for Early Learning and Student Achievement, Karl Le Quesne, says the
commitment and dedication the finalists have shown towards their children and young people is to be commended.
“This year’s finalists demonstrated passion and drive to ensure best possible outcomes for all their children and young
people. We wish them all the best.”
Now in their fourth year, the Awards celebrate the best of teaching in New Zealand.
Halswell Primary School
Halswell Primary School has been selected as a finalist in one Awards category:
· Excellence in Teaching & Learning - Atatū Award.
The Christchurch earthquakes of 2011 and 2012 resulted in a new school for the Halswell community, students and
teachers. The school is a modern learning environment and this meant a new way of teaching and learning was needed.
Between 2013 and 2015, teachers engaged in a professional learning programme focused on the pedagogy of the new
environment. The outcomes of this approach include improved engagement and achievement among students, particularly in
writing, and greater professional collaboration between teachers.
Awards Information
The Awards celebrate some of the best of teaching in New Zealand. This year saw 14 finalists selected from more than 140
entries.
Members of the judging panel are visiting finalists during May and June. Winners from each category will be awarded
$20,000 and a professional development opportunity.
Winners will also qualify for the Prime Minister’s Supreme Award, which is presented to the school or early childhood
service that has had the greatest influence on education outcomes for children and young people.
The Supreme Award winner will receive an additional $30,000 and an opportunity to represent New Zealand education.
Winners will be announced in late June. For more information on the Prime Minister’s Education Excellence Awards, please
visit their website: www.pmawards.education.govt.nz
ENDS