Reporting

Mid Year Learning Conferences

At PBS, we believe that students learn best when they are actively involved in con-versations about their own progress. That’s why, at mid-year, we host Learning Conferences—structured meetings that bring together the student, their teacher, and their parents or whānau in a shared learning conversation.

Rather than being passive recipients of feedback, students are invited to take a leading role—sharing their achievements, reflecting on challenges, and setting goals for the future.

Research shows that when students are involved in these ways, they gain a stronger sense of ownership over their learning, greater confidence, and are more motivated to improve.

Each Learning Conference is 10 minutes long and is designed to:

  • Celebrate what the student has achieved so far this year
  • Identify areas for growth and how home and school can support progress
  • Strengthen the partnership between teachers, students, and whānau

In this format:

  • The teacher leads and facilitates the discussion, using HERO or classroom work to support the conversation
  • The student shares examples of their learning and reflects on their progress, contributing as they feel ready
  • Parents and whānau are encouraged to ask questions and support their child in taking an active role

We know that when students are given space to talk about their learning—with the support of their teacher and family—they feel seen, valued, and understood. This strengthens not just academic progress, but their sense of self-belief and engagement with school.

NB:  Learning Conferences typically focus on progress and achievement. For more complex or confidential matters, parents are welcome to contact teachers to arrange a separate time.

Jess Ward
Tumuaki – Principal