At Mastery Schools New Zealand (MSNZ), we have a strong focus on supporting students with learning difficulties who are falling behind in mainstream schooling and are either disengaged or at risk of disengaging. So, what does that mean exactly?

 

What Does Disengaged Mean?

Students who are disengaged often feel disconnected from their learning environment and may display a variety of behaviours that indicate a lack of motivation, interest, or connection to traditional schooling (it is important to note that this disengagement can stem from a range of factors and is not always about a student’s academic ability).

Traditionally, what this might look like is falling behind with schoolwork (working at a level that is significantly below expectations in one or more subjects) or even refusing to attend school altogether. Here are some more common examples of what disengagement from schooling means.

• Emotional Disengagement: A student may seem withdrawn, quiet, or uninterested. They may appear sad or anxious and avoid social interaction with peers or teachers. This can be a sign that they feel a sense of hopelessness or a lack of belonging.
• Cognitive Disengagement: A student who completes assignments with minimal effort, doesn’t ask questions, or shows a general lack of curiosity. They may be physically present in class but mentally checked out, not retaining information or engaging with the lesson.
• Academic Disengagement: A student who consistently fails to complete homework or classwork. Their grades may be poor, and they may show a lack of confidence in their academic abilities, often saying things like “I’m not smart enough”.
• Disengagement From Specific Subjects: A student who performs well in some subjects but completely ignores others. For example, they might excel in math but refuse to do any writing for their English class. This can be a sign of a specific learning difficulty or a bad experience with a particular subject.
• Behavioural Disengagement: A student who frequently skips classes, arrives late, or is often truant. They may also disrupt class, be disrespectful to teachers, or refuse to participate in activities.

 

Who Does MSNZ Cater For?

We specifically cater for children who are struggling in the classroom; this struggle is usually influenced by learning, social or emotional difficulties, which are directly impacting learning abilities. Our school’s education model is particularly well-suited for young people who have not thrived in a conventional classroom setting and includes, but is not limited to:

• Students with Specific Learning Needs: The traditional curriculum and teaching methods are not always ideal or practical for all students. MSNZ uses Direct and Explicit instruction that is proven to best support students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, or other learning challenges with their learning journey.
• Students With Anxiety: Many students who have experienced social anxiety or school-related stress find it difficult to function in a large, often overwhelming school environment. The smaller, more supportive setting at MSNZ can help these students re-engage with learning.
• Students With School Refusal: Some students stop attending school entirely due to significant emotional distress. MSNZ provides a safe and nurturing environment for students.
• Students Who Have Been Bullied: Students who have been victims of bullying may develop a strong aversion to school. The school’s safe and inclusive environment is designed to help these students regain confidence and feel secure.

 

Enrolment At Mastery Schools New Zealand

Every enrolment is individual and assessed on a case-by-case basis, however, we commonly enrol students with learning difficulties like dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ASD, ADHD and anxiety.
Our enrolment process is extensive to ensure we can successfully meet the needs of every child. Students are tested during enrolment to determine reading, numeracy, literacy, spelling and comprehension ability.

Through our testing, we decide whether we can help a child improve in one or more areas of their learning. After this process, we organise a trial day to ensure our school is the best fit for your child.
It is important to note that sometimes we are unable to meet the needs of every child who applies, especially if severe behavioural issues are at the core of their learning difficulties in the classroom. We do not have the resources to support continual misbehaviour.

 

If your child is struggling in mainstream schooling, we encourage you to express your interest in learning more about Mastery Schools NZ and how we can support your family. Give us a call on 03 365 5022 today!