I am delighted to announce that Rutherford College is one of three national finalists in the Ministry of Education’s Raising Achievement Awards. The award application was based on our work to raise literacy achievement and the work we have done to close the achievement equity gap for Māori and Pasifika learners. Our 2025 NCEA results showed significant achievement growth placing Rutherford College ahead of national averages and our equity across every level of NCEA and University Entrance. Overall we have seen a major shift upwards across NCEA Levels 1,2 and 3 and University Entrance (UE). 

The improvements began to emerge in 2024 with our Year 10 Literacy co-requisite pass rates. In 2023 our Year 10 Level 1 Literacy pass rate was 49% and moved to 64% in 2024. We have gained momentum in the last two years and our most pleasing gains are where we are seeing greater equity for Māori and Pasifika learners. For example, our Pasifika level one pass rate has moved from 40% in 2023 to 71.4% in 2025. Our pass rate for Māori Level 1 learners has risen to its highest level in five years, gaining 17% last year, and  exceeding national and equity band pass rates for Māori learners across the country. Our focus has been on consistent implementation of effective literacy pedagogies and explicit instruction across every curriculum area. The national award winners will be announced on June 24th.

Gary Moore