Grayson and Luke took the lead by visiting the Tuhuatahi classrooms and inviting anyone keen to join a game of football during lunchtime. They set up the field, explained the game, and joined in to make sure that everything ran smoothly. The Tuhuatahi students loved having an opportunity to play with some of their older role models.
Football was cool because a lot of kids wanted to play, and it made it better because it was harder for them to score goals, which made it more of a challenge.
Georgia and Indy also made their way around the Tuhuatahi classrooms, this time inviting students to come over to the courts across the road for a game of netball. They were joined by Mea, who helped run a warm-up and supported the students during the game. Luke, Angus, and Benjamin saw the netball group crossing the road and asked if they could join in as well. Together, the Manukura kept things moving and encouraged everyone to join in and have fun.
It was fun hanging out with the juniors. I haven't played netball, so it was fun experiencing it.
Cameron and Tane had a mix of different ages join their lunchtime touch rugby game, which brought the added challenge of having to explain the rules clearly several times, such as not passing the ball forward. They also showed great care when younger students hurt themselves, taking time to check in and demonstrate how to stretch their legs to loosen up.
Basketball was organised and run by Luke and Cameron. The pair ran a warm up, and Luke gave a demonstration of the rules before getting into the game. Despite the wet weather conditions, the younger students loved being with the Manukura. Many of them enjoyed the chance to play with people they don’t usually play with, and to make new friends.
I liked teaching the little kids how to play basketball, but it was raining today, which made it hard because the ball didn’t bounce as well.
I would love to play basketball with the older students again. I liked doing it because I am playing basketball next year, and I want to get better. I think the older kids did a really good job.
It was fun doing basketball with my big brother and some of my friends. I almost scored. The only bad thing about it was that I didn’t score.
I liked playing basketball with the Manukura because I was playing with both older and younger kids than me, and interacting with them in a team. I was able to get to know them better.
I liked playing with all of the other kids. It was fun when I was running with the ball. Cam and Luke were really nice, and so were the other kids who came out to play. It was a fun game of basketball.
Taking on the responsibility of organising sport has helped the Kotahitanga Manukura grow their confidence and leadership skills. They had to communicate clearly, and make sure that everyone felt included. It also gave them the chance to be positive role models and show kindness, and patience. These qualities make a real difference in the school culture.
Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire - William Butler Yeats
Fostering critical thinking, creativity, and independence creates a positive and engaging environment in which children can thrive and grow. In such an environment, students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, fueling their growth and development along the way.
With experience teaching, both internationally and in New Zealand, I’ve had the opportunity to teach in a variety of academic settings. This journey has allowed me to share my passion for learning, and continuously refine my approach to meet the needs of each unique group of students.
Outside of school, a passion for sports such as tennis, cricket, and football often inspires teaching around the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Whether through physical activities or group projects, students learn valuable lessons in cooperation, and perseverance.
Whaowhai te kete matāuranga - fill the basket with knowledge.
Comments
No one has commented on this post yet.