NZ Report Opening and Closing Comments, Years 1-8
The opening sentence gives a short overall picture of how the child has approached learning in the reporting period, and the closing sentence looks ahead and thanks or invites whānau. Together they frame the key competency comments without repeating them.
Here are 14 samples from the 196 openers and closers in the full pack: one of each for every overall level, then one pair written for each report period.
Fills in the name and pronouns on this page. Nothing is sent anywhere.
For any report period
Overall picture: Consistently C
Opener
- A thoughtful and organised learner, [Name] sets an excellent example for [his/her/their] classmates.
Closer
- [Name] is growing into a capable and caring learner, and I am excited to see where [his/her/their] curiosity leads.
Overall picture: Usually U
Opener
- [Name] often asks good questions and is keen to understand how things work.
Closer
- I am happy to have a kōrero about [Name]'s learning whenever it suits you.
Overall picture: Sometimes S
Opener
- When prompted, [Name] takes time to check [his/her/their] work and fix small errors.
Closer
- [Name] brings a lot to our class, and it is rewarding to watch [him/her/them] grow.
Overall picture: Not yet N
Opener
- With one-to-one help, [Name] is learning to organise [his/her/their] belongings and be ready for learning.
Closer
- Thank you for working alongside us to support [Name].
For a specific report period
Term 1 learning conference or interim
Opener
- Getting to know [Name] this term has been a highlight, as [his/her/their] focus and kindness have shone through from the very first day.
Closer
- After this calm start, [Name] is well placed to build further independence over the coming terms.
Mid-year report (Term 2)
Opener
- During the first two terms, [Name] has often contributed useful ideas and worked cooperatively in groups.
Closer
- Please let me know if you would like to meet and talk about ways to support [Name] for the rest of the year.
End-of-year report (Term 4)
Opener
- Across this year, [Name] has been learning to manage [his/her/their] time and belongings with less adult help.
Closer
- I have enjoyed teaching [Name] this year and will share what helps [him/her/them] with next year's teacher.
Tips for openers and closers
- At a Term 1 learning conference or interim update, focus the opener on how the child has settled into the new class and its routines, since there are only a few weeks of evidence.
- In the mid-year report in Term 2, sum up the first half of the year in the opener and use the closer to name one goal to carry into the second half.
- End-of-year closers in Term 4 can mention the summer holidays and next year's class, or for Years 6 and 8 the next stage of schooling. Thanking whānau or inviting a kōrero suits any rating.
Comments by skill
- Thinking, Years 1-4
- Thinking, Years 5-8
- Using Language, Symbols and Texts, Years 1-4
- Using Language, Symbols and Texts, Years 5-8
- Managing Self, Years 1-4
- Managing Self, Years 5-8
- Relating to Others, Years 1-4
- Relating to Others, Years 5-8
- Participating and Contributing, Years 1-4
- Participating and Contributing, Years 5-8
How these sentences were made, and what has been checked: About these comments.