Karapiti, 2025 Term One

Introducing the Team Members

Jonas Bucher (Team Leader) - Room 1
Having spent the second half of 2024 travelling, I am excited to be returning to the classroom full-time in 2025. I’m looking forward to bringing new perspectives and ideas to the team and creating a positive environment for students. As a teacher, my strengths include literacy, PE and creating opportunities for interactive learning.

Olivia Graham - Room 2
Mrs. Graham is returning to the classroom full-time in 2025. She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge with her. Students love her warm and encouraging teaching style, as well as her proficiency with digital technology. She is skilled at challenging students to achieve at the highest levels and encouraging them to be creative with their learning. 

Jessica McLeod - Room 3
Whaea Jess is joining us from Puketapu School in Taranaki. She is looking forward to becoming part of the Karapiti team and bringing her passion for arts and music. Jess has curriculum strengths in literacy, and enjoys creating engaging learning opportunities for all of her students. 

Tayla Nicholson - Room 4
This will be Miss Nicholson’s 7th year of teaching at Wairakei Primary School. She creates inclusive and innovative learning experiences for her students, making sure that she targets their individual needs and interests. 

Suzanne Flowers and Amy McLaughin - Release Teachers
We are fortunate to have Mrs. Flowers and Whaea Amy joining the team as release teachers. They will be working in all Karapiti classrooms on a regular basis, supporting students across different subjects. Mrs. Flowers enjoys art, and is skilled at teaching mathematics. Whaea Amy is joining us from Auckland, however she is originally from Reporoa. She has a passion for teaching at the Year 5 and 6 level, and has curriculum strengths in digital learning and maths. 

Key Dates

• Year 5 Camp: Feb 20 - Feb 21  
• Year 5 camp meeting: Feb 17, 5.30p.m., Room 1
• Year 6 Camp: Feb 19 - Feb 21
• Year 6 camp meeting: Feb 17, 6p.m. , Room 1
• Ki-o-Rahi Sports Festival: March 11
• Girls Super Smash Cricket: April 9
• Celebration of Learning: April 10

Inquiry Focus: 'What Makes Me a Kiwi Kid'

As a team, Karapiti students will be looking at what makes New Zealand special, different, and unique on a global scale. By comparing New Zealand with other countries, students will develop an understanding of how we relate to the wider world. This inquiry will also tie into the camping experiences, encouraging students to reflect on how outdoor education shapes personal identity. 

We’ll conclude the term with a Celebration of Learning.

Ensuring Student Success in 2025

Beginning the 2025 academic year, Karapiti want to ensure that all students are set up for success. A priority is digital safety to protect students from online risks, and to create a responsible learning space. A Digital Responsibility Agreement for device use will be sent home early in Term 1. This outlines the expectations for safe and responsible use of the school devices and must be read, signed, and returned before students can access their devices.

‘No Hat, No Play’ policy means that students without hats will need to stay in shaded areas during break times. Please ensure that your child has a hat at school to ensure they stay sun-smart. 

The teaching staff of Karapiti are looking forward to a fantastic year at Wairakei Primary School, with plenty of opportunities for learning and growth.

Jonas Bucher

Karapiti Team Leader