Report cards are out and Ministry of Education National Standards data shows Otago's primary and intermediate schools are top of the class in New Zealand for reading, writing and mathematics.
The information is contained in a public achievement information report, released by the ministry yesterday, to give pupils, parents, educators and communities a picture of what is happening both in their regions and nationally.
It shows Otago's 128 schools have consistently been the top performers in New Zealand over the past four years, with the highest percentage of pupils achieving at, or above, National Standards in reading, writing and maths.
Education Minister Hekia Parata said nationally, the information showed primary school achievement in writing and mathematics had increased in 15 of the 16 regions since 2011, and that achievement in reading was up in 13 of the regions.
However, Otago Primary Principals' Association chairwoman Elizabeth Cleverley was sceptical about the data, despite it showing Otago schools in such a positive light.
''On first observation, it feels and sounds nice to see Otago's name as a leading light. Parents, students and schools in Otago may feel a sense of pride.
''But as a profession, it is important to note that all school communities work hard to lift achievement and a love of learning for all children in New Zealand.
''I am reminded that not all that matters can be measured.''
Miss Cleverley questioned what contributing factors might be behind the data.
''Do Otago schools have more equity than other areas, do they have different attitudes to learning, do they have better support networks in place from whanau, other agencies and experienced personnel?''
Are we comparing apples with apples?
''National Standards data is still doubtfully reliable as a measure.''
Despite widespread concerns about National Standards from schools, Ms Parata said the data showed ''exciting progress'' was being made in New Zealand's educational achievement.
Improvements were also evident in the proportion of 18-year-olds with NCEA level 2 qualifications, which were rising in each of the country's 16 local body regions, she said.
The breakdown showed between 2011 and 2014, the percentage of 18-year-olds with NCEA level 2 rose by between 3.8 percentage points and 18.4 percentage points on a regional basis.
The public achievement information report also showed early childhood education participation rates had increased in 14 of the 16 regions during the past four years.
''The numbers ... mean kids are starting school better prepared and leaving better qualified,'' Ms Parata said.
''I am particularly pleased by the progress in areas such as the West Coast, Gisborne and Northland where the percentage of 18-year-olds with NCEA level 2, or an equivalent qualification, has risen by between 11.7 and 18.4 percentage points.''
She said public information about education system performance was vital for pupils, educators, iwi, parents and employers.
''It helps parents and iwi understand how their children's schools are performing, helps teachers provide the right support to the right students and assists schools, employers and training providers to work out what skills are needed to boost local economic performance.''
