The experience so far in terms of the efforts of the new Charter School Agency are streets ahead of the 2013 beginning.
I have established a new Company (Education 710+ Ltd) that is applying for Charitable status. The Charter School model is not designed for profit but the company model is a good oversight structure. I have been able to attract a brilliant group of directors who cover experience and qualifications in education, governance of high value business, law, media, international students, students with needs – and all are very passionate about the project.
We are putting in three very high quality applications in:
– Epsom (Epsom 710): As an academic Year 7 – 10 provision for 240 students (with options for growth). The site that we are negotiating on is exciting in itself and getting it back into full use will benefit the area greatly. 15 students per class and other innovations that will make it work for all students/families who would thrive with a different form of provision.
– Warkworth (Warkworth 710): As an academic Year 7 – 10 provision for 240 students (with options for growth). Already highly supported by the community in an area – north of the Puhoi tunnel – that is growing fast and in need of exciting choice for families. 15 students per class and other innovations that will make it work for all students/families who would thrive with a different form of provision.
– Central City Auckland (City 1113): A University Entrance – transition to tertiary – focused school for 180 students in 2025 and 360 in 2026.
If approved all three provisions will be free. Under the Charter School model all students must be accepted and if/when full a formal ballot done. We would employ high quality teachers and pay them more than the collective contract (with other benefits such as life and health benefits – as well as the sheer joy of working it an environment where students come to genuinely learn and the model makes teaching deeply satisfying). No teacher only days and no strikes.
The team involved in Education 710+ Ltd will also be very well positioned to be a “sponsor” of State schools looking to transition to become Charters and I am happy to take enquiries on what that may mean.
If approved, all three schools would be set to start in Term 1 2025. Given the time frame we are currently taking expressions of interest from families for their children, potential teaching and leadership staff, people who may like to assist (in any form – including philanthropy and to see us fast out of the blocks). All contacts to alwyn.poole@gmail.com
I also have the privilege of working with some other excellent applicants. There are children and families in a range of areas that, if the schools are approved, can expect an exciting and very high quaity new option.
The Big Catch: Tacklebox is the hardest 3D platformer I've ever played, 8+ hours long, and a free to play 'prologue' to a bigger, better game on the way
I'm terrified for my free time after a few hours with the Dead Cells developer's new frantic co-op roguelike out this month
The Case of the Golden Idol has done so well that it's getting a free definitive edition upgrade
Epic Boss Tim Sweeney says Unreal Engine 6 will be a 'metaverse' joining Fortnite and other Unreal games, including an upcoming 'persistent universe' in development with Disney
