The tuakana-teina relationship is an important part of traditional Māori society. An older or more expert tuakana (brother, sister or cousin) helps and guides a younger or less expert teina (brother, sister or cousin) of the same gender. This relationship provides a model for reciprocal teaching and learning in schools. Reciprocal teaching is where the students become the teachers.
The Powhiri leaders of 2021 took on the expert role to share their skills and knowledge with students in Year 5 who were wanting to be Powhiri leaders in 2022. The positive role models certainly had an impact on the younger students. They listened carefully as the leaders shared how the first Powhiri was quite a nerve wracking experience. The pride felt from successfully overcoming that nervousness and being successful karanga callers and speakers was also shared. Hearing these stories was a calming influence on the younger students.
After modeling the Powhiri process, the experts paired up with a buddy and became their mentor. Several practices were held during the school day. Students also took the opportunity to organise extra practices during break times independently.
Our senior leaders were involved in the selection process for the new Powhiri leaders. They discussed each person's strengths and readiness for each part of the Powhiri. The more confident girls get the first opportunity to perform the karanga calls.
He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata
What is the most important thing in the world?
It is people, it is people, it is people.
