Does Rutherford get good exam results?
Rutherford has an academic focus and Year 13 students gain entry into university. The NCEA Level 3 results are often above the national average. The work ethic of study, homework, regular attendance and teacher-student partnership has ensured that we can be proud of our exam results.

How do we help new students to settle quickly into their new school?
Rutherford has a comprehensive pastoral care programme to help students achieve well. The change from primary to secondary school can be quite difficult for many students as they leave a familiar and senior position in Year 8 to become the smallest and most junior students in Year 9. The Junior programme ensures that the transition is as smooth as possible and one of our key initiatives is ‘Peer Support’.

Will my child get regular homework?
Yes. All departments throughout the college have a homework policy statement and homework is set regularly.  As a college, we believe that regular home study is important for your child’s success at Rutherford and we expect families to support us in giving this training in independent learning.

Our guide is:
Year 9-10, 1 – 2 hours per day
Year 11-13, 2 – 3 hours per day

How can I check on my child’s progress?
We welcome contact with families and believe that real progress can only be made when the college, home and student work closely together.  Any of the following may be contacted depending on the nature of your concerns.

• Dean – can help with attendance matters and the overall needs of your child, including course or subject concerns.  These people will usually be your first contact.
• The Student Support, Careers and Transmission staff – can help with many family or school problems and give specialised help with career, course and transition decisions.
• The Principal and Executive – are responsible for the overall running of the college.  All these people may be contacted through the school office.

How does the college tell us about our child’s progress?
If the college has concerns about your child we will contact you immediately.  The progress of all students is checked early in the first term and brief reports are sent home.  Families are contacted where needed.  Detailed reports are issued in term tow and term four.  Parent-teacher meetings are held at regular intervals during the year.

Will my child be safe?
Yes! We believe that all students have a right to be safe at school. Any situation which threatens students’ safety or their ability to concentrate on school work is dealt with very quickly and firmly. We take this responsibility very seriously indeed and will not tolerate any bullying, violence or disrespect.