Frequently asked questions

When are school assemblies held? School assemblies are an important part of school life. All parents are welcome to attend an assembly, which is usually on alternate Fridays at 2.30pm. Assembly dates are advertised in the MENPS Newsletter, which is distributed every Thursday via email. The weekly newsletter informs you of future events and what is happening at school. The Newsletters are also posted on the school website at www.mteden.school.nz, along with our key dates overview for the term.

How many students are in a class? We believe that class size makes a difference to the quality of experiences, relationships and support that we can offer. As a general guide, we work hard to achieve optimal class sizes of wherever possible, with additional Board funding, according to the year level: Y0/1: 18-22 Y2/3: 22-26 Y4-6: 25-30

Does MENPS have open-plan 'Modern Learning Environments?' Are there plans to introduce this? No. Our learners inquire, collaborate and learn very successfully in single classroom environments that are modern, well-resourced and carefully designed to meet the needs of all of our learners. Our vision does not include a move to open-plan spaces. Technology is used purposefully as one tool for learning, but does not dominate the curriculum. We believe that getting the balance right between digital and non-digital tools is essential, and that technology should be used in age-appropriate ways.

Do the children take part in shows or performances? MENPS stages a Year 1 and Year 2 showcase on separate evenings in Term 2 each year. The Middle & Senior School Production is usually in Term 3, on an alternate cycle. Any shows scheduled in the calendar year will be published on our school website at www.mteden.school.nz, along with our key dates overview for the term.

What sports opportunities are there for my child? Curriculum programes focus on age-appropriate skills development. While not part of the NZ Curriculum as a subject, opportunities are provided for students to participate in a wide range of sports, both during school and out of school hours, including opportunities at competition level. Click here (javascript:void(0))for a comprehensive list of available sport and criteria for selecting zone teams Generally speaking, team sports opportunities become more of a focus for older children from Y3 onwards.

What trips and activities are available? Throughout the year, a wide range of age-appropriate trips and off-site activities are undertaken as part of the learning programmes. A general permission slip for each student is signed on enrolment, and information is sent home with details of each trip prior to the trip taking place. The cost of most one day trips is covered by the school donation, and we also organise annual overnight camp for older children. Parent help is usually required for trips in order to ensure adult to child supervision ratios in line with our policies and procedures.