Concerns Raised Over Auckland North Shore High School Class Division Issues

This morning, I received an email from a concerned parent of a 9th-grade middle-level class. They questioned whether we deliberately made the Term 1 end-of-term Extension Test more challenging to limit the number of students moving from the middle-level class to the advanced class.

It’s important to clarify that the Extension Test is the same for every student, regardless of whether they are in the middle-level or advanced class. This ensures a fair and transparent selection process. Adjustments to students’ schedules are a normal part of the educational journey and do not influence our teaching approach. There is no reason for teachers to intentionally make things difficult for students or hinder their progress.

The anxiety surrounding class divisions is understandable, as both students and parents often aim for the best possible opportunities. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the advanced class may not be the right fit for everyone. If a student is not yet at the level required for the advanced class, the intense competition could lead to disappointment and poor performance.

Some parents also believe that the teachers in the advanced class are superior, which is a common misconception. Each year, teachers rotate through different grade levels and classes, including advanced, middle-level, and slower-paced classes. This rotation is a standard practice. Parents who worry that the resources in the middle-level class are inferior need not be overly anxious.

As long with consistent good performance in the middle-level class, your child will be well-prepared to take Calculus in higher grades and will have no trouble securing admission to their desired university and major.