I was looking for a school that matched my teaching philosophy, a philosophy that has developed over my many years in education. My journey has taken me across continents, from South Africa, where my passion for teaching was born, to the diverse classrooms of Auckland, and now to the beautiful community of Taupō. Each step has deepened my belief in the power of education to shape the minds and lives of students and school communities, creating a deep sense of whānau.
At the heart of my teaching philosophy is the understanding that every student is unique. Each child brings their own background, strengths, and way of engaging with the world around them. I believe schools should be more than just a place of learning; it should be a place where every student feels a sense of belonging, value, and connection. Only then can authentic learning take place.
Once I became part of the staff, I saw classrooms where students are valued for who they are and what they bring to the school and its community. The school’s culture is rooted in the POWER values (Pride, Opportunity, Whānau, Excellence, Respect), shaping students to become confident, engaged, and responsible young members of their community.
From an educational perspective, I am impressed by the quality of the teaching and the teachers' engagement in finding ways to make learning exciting and enjoyable, while ensuring a comprehensive programme for students from New Entrants to Year 6. Teachers here engage in ongoing professional development, collaborate, reflect on their practice, and use assessment to guide teaching and learning. They show dedication and determination, learning about and implementing the new curriculum areas. They approach their planning with critical thought, using the Science of Learning to guide them.
The school's inquiry focus for Terms 3 and 4 was “Making a Mark”. In response, every teaching team developed stimulating and thought-provoking challenges. Students engaged with these in diverse ways. This engagement led to outcomes such as considered writing, oral presentations, model making, and the application of the arts appropriate to their year group. Furthermore, the students deepened their understanding of both New Zealand and other histories. Every activity was carefully aligned to meet the expectations of the curriculum.
In my role as Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), I have been impressed by the number of students and whānau that are supported through applied funding or the school's own provisions. The teachers are invested in the students in their care, looking for solutions at an educational, emotional, or social level. If support is needed in any form, the school does its utmost to find and provide it.
As in all things, it is the little details that sometimes make the biggest difference. The students know they are valued members of the school. From their first visit to the school's Steaming into School Programme until their farewell in Year 6, students are given several opportunities to leave their mark at Wairakei Primary School - each child who enrols at the school plants their very own tree. Planting a tree creates a personal connection between the student and their learning journey at school. When students leave the school at the end of Year 6, they leave their name within a cement koru in the Leavers’ Garden, outside the hall, always to be a part of the Wairakei school community.
I planted this tree because I like looking at the scenery, and I like this school.
This is my tree. The reason I planted it is because this school is special to me.
I came to this school because I like it. I growed my tree because I like plants.
Speaking to some of the Year 6 students, I heard their feelings about soon having their names added to the pathway in the Leavers’ Garden
I feel good about having my name in the Leavers’ Garden because it makes a mark for me to know that I have been here for 6 years
I look forward to having my name in the Leavers’ Garden because then people will know that I have been here.
If people come in here, they might see my name and remember me.
For me, the small acts of kindness from all staff towards students have made the biggest impact. I have seen students have a toastie and Milo made for them by the Principal, teachers talking and counselling students, and making extra time to support whānau. These unique efforts make Wairakei Primary stand out as a school that puts students first, creating a safe learning space where they can explore academics and social skills in a caring context.
There is so much more to this amazing school than what this post can do justice to. Visiting the website and reading other blogs will give you a deeper insight into a school I am proud to be part of.
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