Wed, 29 Sep 2004

Projects help students at risk - research

Research shows positive changes in students' behaviour and attitudes as a result of three innovative programmes for students at risk of poor educational achievement, Education Minister Trevor Mallard said today.

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Research shows positive changes in students' behaviour and attitudes as a result of three innovative programmes for students at risk of poor educational achievement, Education Minister Trevor Mallard said today.

Trevor Mallard said a recent evaluation of three Ministry of Education programmes, 'Cool Schools', 'Kiwi Can' and 'Tû Tangata', show encouraging results for the students and schools involved.

"These programmes aim to address students' behaviour and attitudes, and develop skills which benefit the school community, forging strong links between school and home," Trevor Mallard said.

The programmes are funded from the Innovations Funding Pool which funds programmes to support students at risk of poor educational outcomes.

"The projects were consistently supported by schools, teachers, students and the local community, and were found to reduce incidents of bullying, fighting, and playground conflicts. Students' attitudes developed positively in the areas of cooperation, manners and tolerance," Trevor Mallard said.

The findings also showed that the schools were committed to continuing with the programme after the pilot phase.

'Cool Schools' gives students the skills to mediate disputes and conflicts, without physical or verbal violence. Teachers are trained in the programme, and teach mediation skills to their classes. Older students, overseen by a teacher, mediate disputes between other students.

The 'Kiwi Can' programme focuses on life skills, and developing an 'I Can' attitude. The programme is delivered in both primary and intermediate schools through Kiwi Can leaders - young people, one male and one female. Each class in the school attends one class a week with their teacher, with the programme tailored to the individual school.

'Tû Tangata' places people from the community in support roles - working in the classroom alongside particular students.

The evaluation of the projects is available on www.minedu.govt.nz/goto/innovations

ENDS

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