Nestled off Penrose Road, ever wonder about the story behind Bailey Road School? It began in 1966. The site was once the old Penrose Farmhouse.
Bailey Road School is named after General James Bailey. He was stationed in this area during the war years. These were the times of conflict between British settlers and Maori.
The school boasts great facilities. There are spacious grounds and a special library. It is called Whare Ahuru Mowai which means a calm sheltering place. Bailey Road School also provides attractive flexible learning spaces, a hall and a swimming pool.
Bailey Road School has strong ties with the community. It works closely with several organizations. One is the Royal New Zealand Navy’s frigate HMNZS Te Kaha. Others include the Maungarei Community Christian Trust. The Ellerslie Rotary Club is also a close partner. Additionally, Bailey Road School is part of Maungakiekie Kahui Ako.
These groups help the school’s Board of Trustees. They also support the school leadership. Their shared goal is to improve student outcomes. This focus remains at the forefront of everything done at Bailey Road School.
The school aims to develop important qualities in its students. They foster knowledge, positive attitudes and useful skills. This helps children reach their full potential. They strive to achieve personal bests in all areas. Partnership between family and school is key. Bailey Road School encourages whanau involvement. It promotes open communication between home and school.
Bailey Road School in Mount Wellington is culturally diverse. It caters to students in Years 1 to 8. The school’s values are honesty, effort, achievement, respect, and togetherness. These HEART values are the school’s core beliefs.
The school has strategic priorities. These include consistent teaching. They are also improving curriculum design. Bailey Road School also focuses on wellbeing.
In 2023, talented students created a book and video. It was titled “The Streets”. It captured life on their streets in Mount Wellington. The Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board proudly funded this project. The video shows students reading their views of their neighborhood. It highlights positive aspects of the Mount Wellington area.
The project allowed students to connect with their community. It motivated them to improve their literacy skills. It also rejuvenated negative perceptions of “the streets”. Students shared honest and fond observations.
The school roll is diverse. It includes Pasifika, Maori, Asian, and New Zealand European students. In the book, students explain their backgrounds. They describe how their families arrived at their street.
David Riley, a former teacher, produced the book and video. His mission is to help under-represented children. He encourages them to develop reading and writing skills. He also aims to instill pride in their origins.
Bailey Road School continues to empower its students. It equips them with the skills. It encourages them to embrace their community. The school ensures they are ready for their future journeys.