About Us
Isleworth School, established in 1962, is situated in the northwest area of Christchurch in the suburb of Bishopdale. In the early 1970's the roll was in excess of 1000. The school now benefits from the building programme which resulted from the high numbers and efforts of the community in those days, i.e. two swimming pools, an excellent hall and two major play areas. All buildings are of permanent materials and have been well maintained. Wall murals enhance the buildings and general school environment.
The needs of the pupils are paramount, as stated in the school's mission statement:
"Inspiring students to achieve their full potential through quality partnerships and shared values"
The involvement of the school community has for years been a strength which has been utilised with considerable benefit to pupils, teachers and parents. In staffing the school an underlying goal is to strive towards a balance in age and experience on the staff. The interests and knowledge of teachers have been used to develop, implement and evaluate programmes which are viable and meet the needs of the children. The staff are highly motivated by continuously being involved in curriculum contracts and endeavours beyond the school.
Pupil assistance programmes are taken within classrooms as well as a Reading Recovery Programme which is in operation. Maori language programmes are taught at all levels. Overall, the success rate has been very good with a strong emphasis on early literacy development and early numeracy development.
The school maintains regular contact with other schools by way of sporting and cultural exchanges.
Isleworth School delivers excellence in learning programmes, maintains highly organised systems and, as a result, enjoys a positive profile in the community.
SCHOOL'S COMMUNITY
Isleworth school is situated in the suburb of Bishopdale in the north west area of Christchurch.
Bishopdale became established in the late 1950's, early 1960's. While further development of the suburb is very limited, it remains a reasonably sought after residential area. The population is predominantly New Zealand European with some other ethnic groups present in the community.
In the developing stages of Bishopdale, the community was predominantly that of younger families. However, this has now changed, in the sense that there is a more balanced spread of age groups within the community. Bishopdale is not an affluent community — however most families live in their own homes and unemployment is less than the average for the city of Christchurch.
The school enjoys a good relationship with the greater community and the suburb's retailers. The school facilities are becoming increasingly used by a wide range of local community groups and others from the wider Christchurch community. The Isleworth school curriculum programmes link to exchanges with local community members, nearby schools and pre-schools. The school is supported by city-wide community involvement from the police, sports clubs, cultural organisations, education related organizations, health agencies and welfare groups.
Generally, Isleworth school enjoys a most positive profile within the local community.
Download our Charter, Strategic Plan, Annual Plan and Achievement Targets for 2009 above
