Right here stands Hay Park School a place where young minds blossom. Let’s journey through its story.
Hay Park School began with a vision. This vision was of Elwyn Richardson. He was the school’s first principal. Richardson served during the 1950s and 1960s. He was an innovative pioneer in New Zealand education.
Richardson’s experimental schools were Oruaiti School and Hay Park School. He used a child-centred approach here. He encouraged children’s natural curiosity. He taught them to understand their feelings. They learned about the world through art and writing.
Linda Stevens was a foundation pupil. She remembers Elwyn Richardson fondly. She recalls writing in cardboard grocery boxes. Richardson set up a printing press. He knew expressing thoughts and emotions was important.
Shirley Baskett remembers Richardson. She said he was the most fantastic headmaster and teacher ever. Her time at Hay Park School impacted her life. She writes for a living because of him.
Diane Macleod attended Hay Park School from 1963 to 1965. She cites Richardson as her most influential teacher. Diane loved writing stories. She enjoyed doing lino cuts. Setting type for the printing press was fun. She remembers running with old tyres at playtime. Making a guy for the November 5th Bonfire at the school was memorable.
Today the child-centred approach is the norm. It is relevant to children’s diverse backgrounds. These include cultures, languages, and experiences. While Principal at Hay Park School Elwyn Richardson wrote his book ‘In the Early World’. Elwyn Richardson died in December 2012.
Hay Park School has a clear vision. As a positive learner, each child will believe in their potential. They will achieve their dreams. They will succeed through life. The school’s mission is partnering with the community. They develop successful learners. These learners can shape their future.
Hay Park School values respect. It also values responsibility and resilience. Students are respectful. They care for the environment. They care for themselves and others. They follow instructions. They appreciate differences. They use kind words and a friendly voice.
Hay Park learners are responsible. They are aware of others. They use equipment correctly. They stay within boundaries. They report problems. Hay Park students show resilience. They ask questions and seek help. They give their best effort. They stay focused and complete tasks.
Hay Park School uses the Ako Hiko program. Year 4, 5, and 6 students learn on Chromebooks. The Hay Park Way encourages positive learners. Hay Park learners are respectful, responsible, and resilient.
Hay Park School is located in Mt Roskill Auckland. The school caters for Years 0-6. The school’s vision focuses on positive learners. They believe in their potential. They achieve their dreams. They value respect, resilience, and responsibility. Hay Park prepares students to be successful learners. They can take action to shape their future.
Hay Park School focuses on several strategic priorities. These include creating a welcoming environment. They build powerful partnerships. They raise expectations for learner progress. They strengthen support for children’s learning. This is done through a sense of belonging and identity.
Hay Park School has strengths. Students have a strong sense of identity. Tuakana-teina relationships are visible. All staff are valued. Leadership focuses on reflection.
Hay Park School promotes te ao Māori. A specialist te reo teacher gives regular lessons. Students learn te reo Māori. They have opportunities to participate in kapa haka. Students are becoming familiar with tikanga Māori.
Hay Park School continues to evolve. It builds on its strengths. It focuses on improving outcomes for all learners. The school’s vision ensures a bright future for its students.