Hostel License
Our Hostel License can be viewed here.
ERO Report
The following is an extract of the latest ERO report for Wairarapa College, the full report is available online here.
Provision for Students in the School Hostel
In this review ERO evaluated the extent to which the school hostel provides a safe physical and emotional environment that supports learning for students accommodated in the hostel.
From 1 March 2007 school hostels are required to be licensed by the Ministry of Education and comply with minimum standards specified in the hostel regulations.
The school hostel, College House, accommodates 157 students, 14 % of the school roll. It is co‑educational, catering for students from years 9 to 13, and is owned by the Wairarapa College Board of Trustees, which exercises governance through a hostel committee. College House has been licensed by the Ministry of Education.
Areas of good performance
The areas of good performance noted at the time of the 2004 ERO review of the hostel continue to be evident.
- The hostel is well managed to support the learning, achievement and well-being of students. All students undertake supervised daily prep and tutors are rostered to assist those requiring help individually or in small groups. Additional small prep rooms and computers are available for study use. Students appreciate the access to the academic, sporting, cultural and social opportunities that living in the hostel gives them.
- Orientation and information booklets provide clear and useful information to students and parents about living in the hostel including routines, expectations and key procedures such as those for leave and communication between home and hostel. Rules and consequences are clearly stated and well understood by students. Good systems operate for monitoring students’ whereabouts and responding to health needs. Students know how to contact hostel managers and supervising staff during the day and at night.
- A newsletter is published each term providing extensive coverage, including photographs, of hostel events. Students write much of the material. Participation and achievement is recognised on noticeboards and through a system of weekly and termly rewards. Feature events include celebration meals and an annual hostel ball. A specially written hostel haka has been learned and presented for the first time this year. Head student, prefect and dorm representative positions provide leadership roles for students and avenues for input into decision making.
- Facilities are comfortable and well maintained. Continuing refurbishment is evident, as are good standards of cleanliness and security throughout the buildings. A range of recreational areas includes spacious common rooms, a gymnasium, pool room, and tennis and volleyball courts. Reviews of the dining hall menus by a nutritionist support a focus on healthy food.
- Students spoken with by ERO said they feel safe in the hostel and particularly enjoy being with friends.