The Alpha Digital Facility was created by visionary educationalists who believe that 21 st century students require a high quality education which prepares them for the challenges of the new century. The creation of the facility was preceded by a lengthy period of research into the efficacy of the digital medium.
Experienced teachers worked with eLearning experts to create a state of the art digital facility which provides students with a unique opportunity to access an individualised education which marries the best of experiential learning with the global learning opportunities created by the digital classroom environment.
Students who are accepted for the Alpha programme work with experienced teachers and mentors from the arts, business, sports and academic world.
The creator of the Alpha programme is Frances Hill, who has taught extensively in both the UK and New Zealand. Frances developed her unique learning programme during her ten years as a school principal. She has always focused on meeting the needs of students who don't fit the system by reason of temperament, learning difficulties or giftedness. For this reason she has undertaken extensive post-graduate training in the areas of special needs provision and gifted education.
Frances' passion for teaching has taken her into a variety of learning areas. She has been trained both as a Primary and Secondary Teacher. She is the creator of the Bright Sparks and Building Blocks Pre-School programmes. Frances worked in the UK as a Music Teacher and Drama Coach. She is a director of the Alpha Education Consultancy and author of the Teaching Gifted Learners series of books for teachers.
Frances also works as an advisor to teachers. She has developed the innovative teaching programme The Responsive Teacher Course for New Zealand teachers. Her contribution to New Zealand Education has been recognised by parents, colleagues and Education Review Officers.
'The principal's vision and passion for learning inspires commitment and dedication in others. She consistently articulates an educational vision that places students and their learning at the centre (of the educational process). The staff, trustees, parents and students reported that they valued these aspects of the principal's leadership and gained inspiration from her dedication and commitment.'
