School backs NCEA analysis publication

Wellington High School is welcoming the release of new figures painting a clearer picture of each school's performance.

An analysis of the 2008 NCEA results is being posted on the Qualifications Authority website today with more detail than in previous years.

For the first time parents will be able to compare school results by subject, gender and ethnicity.

Wellington High School principal Prue Kelly said there was no doubt the results would be wonderful for schools, but they were only indicative of the school's actual performance.

"For the purposes of comparison between schools, I think the same problem remains - that the figures take no cognizance of the character aspect of the kids who are actually attending a school. What their abilities are, the length of time they've been at the school."

Ms Kelly said ultimately the best way to choose a school was to visit it.

- NEWSTALK ZB