"We want to create a way of working as a whole community, agencies and us together, that creates hope and optimism"
Georgie Thompson, Ruapotaka Marae, Tamaki
Victory School: Providing Leadership in the Community

June 2009

A remarkable example of involvement, the aptly-named Victory Primary School in Nelson has not had to stand down or suspend any children for the past nine years. This is largely due to the community leadership role taken by the school and its active integration of education, health and social wellbeing in a community centre based at the school.

"The more our school becomes a community centre, the more it becomes the centre of community and family life, the better our children can do."

Mark Brown, Principal, Victory School

Now, a diverse range of practical activities and services attract local residents to the Victory Village community centre. Using a 'partnering way of working' with parents and across multiple groups, organisations, and sectors was key. There are

  • Quality childcare services
  • Clubs
  • Parenting support
  • Adult and intergenerational learning
  • Health promoting services, legal advice and homework centres

This interactive school community approach has brought about impressive outcomes for both students and their families.  Parental involvement has increased and:

  • The children now achieve above national average academic results
  • The children have improved self image, self confidence, attitudes and behaviour
  • There is very little aggression in the playground
  • Families are less transient and those that participate in the community centre are healthier.

This is an astounding achievement for a community with high rates of childhood illness, mental illness and families living in deprivation.

For further information about the leadership role taken by Victory Primary School, their approach and their impressive successes, a DVD is available from the Families Commission.  Please email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it