Knighton is a large, exceptionally diverse school next to the University of Waikato. We pride ourselves on having a respectful, inclusive environment in which students are encouraged to support and care for one another. The size of our school allows for a wide range of opportunities and pathways for our students, but also means that we know every child as an individual….. we know that positive relationships are key in learners’ success.
As a normal school we are committed to making a positive difference to initial teacher education. Our role in working in partnership with the University of Waikato involves working with grad students, Kakano Rua students and supporting the University in a range of other ways. This sees our staff lecturing at the university and on site.
At Knighton Normal School our vision ‘A Great Place to Be’ drives every decision we make. We believe our purpose is to create self-directed learners (as articulated in the Knighton Way) who know what makes them unique, what they are good at, what they need to work on and what steps they need to take to get there. Students who are truly driving their learning.
At Knighton Normal School we have a clear vision of what we would like to achieve. This vision has been created after extensive consultation with school stakeholders - kindergartens, parents, students, educational experts, local business and our contributing schools.
We understand that it is impossible to predict what it will be like for current learners in their futures and the knowledge that they will require, but we believe our learner vision outlines the skills, values and dispositions that are essential for our learners to make a positive difference in their lives and the lives of others.
Research from educational experts such as Jacques Delores, Sir Ken Robinson, Guy Claxton, Art Costa, Ian Jukes and Mark Treadwell have fed into our vision.
During the six years at Knighton Normal School we want our learners to discover their talents, passions and interests. We value cultural, sporting, academic and service pathways that give our learners a wide range of opportunities to try new experiences. Finding a passion can be a life changing experience, which can create self-worth, identity and enthusiasm that assists students with learning across the curriculum.