Principal's Message

McAuley High School extends a warm welcome to all parents, students and our community.  We are extremely proud of our goal to encourage all students to achieve to the maxixmum of their ability.  As a school steeped in the Mercy traditions (founded in 1963 by the Sisters of Mercy) and now a Diocesan school, we are very aware that we exist because of our faith.  As an integrated Catholic school in South Auckland we are justly proud of the special character of our school.  Our students are predominantly Pasifika and we rejoice in our diversity.

Our special character is reflected in all our interactions and in the special celebrations of the school.  Each year we choose a Mercy value and we base our liturgical celebrations and our school life  around the value.  In 2009 our value was "Care for the Poor and the Vulnerable".  In 2010 our value is "Care for the Environment".  Our name - McAuley High School - is the name of the foundress of the Mercy Order.  Her aim was to educate the  disadvantaged to enable them to rise above the barriers of poverty.  Our students achieve above the national average at Levels 1 and 2 NCEA and above the decile average at Level 3 NCEA.  High quality teaching and parental support enable our students to stand tall.  Our participation in Stage Challenge, The Big Sing and debating events - to mention a few - reflect our willingness to compete and display our talented students.

We believe in a well rounded education and provide many opportunities for students to participate and enjoy extra curricular activities.  Our sporting teams achieve success and follow the Fairplay rules.  For instance, our volleyball team has been both New Zealand and Australasian champions. We offer a wide range of sporting opportunities.

Our Health and Guidance centre provides support for all students.  A trained counsellor, social worker and registered nurses are on site to assist all students.  They work closely with families to support and provide assistance.  We are aware of the need to prevent ill health and our support of programmes such as HOPE and Active Friday have been recognised with awards.

We believe in supporting our parents.  Our Adult Literacy Programme has enabled parents to further their skills in Literacy, Budgetting, Computing  and Tai Chi.  These classes run during the day and become support groups for the participants.  When our adult students receive their awards we are extremely proud of them.

Above all our school is a happy place, where students feel safe and supported.  Our ERO report highlighted this.  Strong expectations of behaviour, uniform, attendance and attitude mean that all students are able to learn and teachers are able to teach.  We are blessed with wonderful young women and committed, dedicated staff.

I am grateful for the privilege of being a member of this school.  We are indeed blessed by all with whom we come in contact.

May the peace of Christ be with you all.

Anne Miles
Principal
(BA STD ATCL MIRMT)