Location
The Catlins Area School is a rural area school situated in Owaka and provides the main focus of education for the Catlins Community. The school serves a basically rural community, which is close knit and caring.

The school became an Area School in 1977 and was previously known as the Owaka District High School. The school today has clearly defined philosophy and enjoys strong input and support from the community. The close proximity of the Playcentre, Community Centre and swimming pool enhances the school’s programmes.

The township of Owaka serves the Catlins Area, which is well known for its natural scenery and wildlife. The spectacular coastline provides a good natural habitat for many forms of wildlife. Inland, the native bush has many walking tracks and natural features such as rivers, lakes and waterfalls.

The school is aware of the excellent resource the Catlins provides and is careful to include it in as many school programmes as possible.

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Recognising Excellence
The Ministry of Education has recognised that The Catlins Area School provides innovative and high quality teaching spaces for students - including the school as an example of property development being used for Improved Learning Outcomes. You can download the Ministry of Education report on The Catlins Area School, titled Innovative School Learning Spaces, here.

School Aims
Our school’s aim are summarised as follows:

• To deliver the curriculum in a manner that ensures all students achieve levels of knowledge and understanding that reflect their learning abilities
• To provide a curriculum that is up to date, reviewed regularly and is accessible to all students
• To effectively monitor and report on student performance and progress
• To ensure that the students have access to well qualified staff
• To make effective use of available funds for the delivery of a quality education to our students
• To provide a safe, healthy, modern and attractive teaching and learning environment
• To consult with our community and encourage a welcoming and informative relationship with them
• To follow practices, rules, policies and procedures that are sensitive to the needs and values of all cultures

Note: A more detailed outline of the school’s aims can be found in the school’s Strategic Plan. Copies of this are available from learn@catlins.school.nz.