Our School Vision
We want our school to be a place where members of the school community work constructively together to support teachers' efforts to challenge our children as they grow and learn in a positive and caring environment.
About
Garston School is a small rural school providing education for students from Years 1 to 8 (ages 5-13 years).
We have strong ties with our small community and a real family atmosphere at the school. A special feature of our school is that we offer extremely favourable class sizes where our children's needs are met in a learning environment which is secure, stimulating and supportive.
We are situated 65 kilometres south of Queenstown on the Invercargill to Queenstown highway. Location map >>
Garston School grounds are beautifully maintained and have a netball, tennis and basketball court, Rugby and soccer field, small swimming pool and sandpit area. There is a reflective garden and a modern adventure, agility play area with flying fox and rope swing. The children are encouraged to help maintain the vegetable and flower gardens as well as using our eco hut made entirely from recycled materials.
Education outside the classroom is an essential aspect of building the child's life skills:
Learning to work cooperatively with others.
Showing resilience and stamina.
Experiencing challenge.
Developing independence when away from home by managing themselves in an unfamiliar environment.
enviroschools
The school is committed to teaching the children about improving its environmental practices such as waste minimisation, energy and water saving and buying environmentally friendly products. This gives them a greater sense of responsibility for their school environment.
Action projects are an important part of building the children’s interest and creating ownership for their kura and a sense of pride for enhancing their school environment. Through participation and taking part in the decision making process, the children are empowered and the aim is that they will then go on to apply this to life outside of school.
Special Character
The children are given opportunities to develop important values and skills for living, learning and relating well to others. The school’s aim is for the children to show that they have the Garston SPIRIT when they are:
Self-assured,
Productive
Independent
Respectful
Innovative
Thinking smart
Community Involvement
Garston School is fortunate to have a wealth of talented and committed parents and community members who fully support school activities. They are invested in retaining the school’s proud history and traditional celebrations which continue to strengthen our strong connections.