Why Choose Us?

1.  We are a  'Normal' school:

• this mean we are closely associated with the University of Otago College of Education and provide pre-service training for trainee teachers

• this is very beneficial as our children not only experience the fresh ideas of our trainee teachers but also experience top quality teaching and learning practices from our teaching team (kaiako) as they model these to our trainees. 

2.  The option of being in a  'Model' Class:

• our school is unique in that parents may choose the option of enrolling their child in a Model class.  We are the only school in Dunedin who offers this. 

• this is an opportunity for children to experience a more 'rural/country school' type of education within our larger urban environment

• if you are interested in learning more about this, please click under 'Our People' 'Models Team' tab.

3.  We offer your child:

• The opportunity to achieve to a high academic level (see latest ERO profile report)

• Quality teaching and learning programs by one of our 22 ‘Normal School’ teachers

• An incredible selection of 20+ extra-curricular activities and 40+ sports teams

• An inclusive multicultural environment with a growing use of Te reo Māori and honouring of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

• Well equipped classes with computers, ipads and either a data projectors, large screen TV or interactive whiteboard

• A separate environment for five and six year olds

• Excellent primary age ESOL teaching

• The benefits of partnerships with the University of Otago and an overseas sister school. 

• An award winning character education / values programme

• Quality support programmes such as Advanced Abilities, ESOL, Special Needs and Reading Recovery that meet learning needs of individual children

• A focus on wellbeing through the use of our strengths-based teaching and learning approach. 

• A rich performing arts school culture - we have a specialist music teacher

• Weekly science learning from a specialist science teacher

• Saturday Morning Music Classes 

• An annual camp (Year 6) and city adventure week (Year 5)

• 'Georgies' - Before school and after school programme

• Friendships with other happy George Street Normal children!