Dr Dean McKenzie presents key findings from a mixed methods research project designed to investigate NCEA summative assessment use for overall school improvement. The data was gathered from two sources, a national online survey of New Zealand secondary schools and semi structured interviews carried out across three New Zealand schools. The research looks at the process of NCEA summative assessment through a leadership lens. The findings reveal inconsistent use of NCEA assessment information and considerable frustration and dissatisfaction from school leaders. Recommendations are presented to guide practice, including a model to assist school leaders in New Zealand make effective use of NCEA assessment information. The workshop concludes with an example of implementing the model presented in a secondary school setting, highlighting both challenges and successes.
Dean is a Deputy Principal at Middleton Grange School in Christchurch. He has been involved in senior leadership for more than a decade, with responsibility for assessment and reporting.
Find Dean’s presentation slides here: Dean McKenzie More Than Just Results Using Summative Data NZAI 2025
