Raparapa, 2025 Term One

Kia ora Whānau

Rooms 15 and 16 are embarking on an exciting learning journey exploring the theme "I Belong". Together, students will discover the special places in the school, classrooms, Wairakei Village, and even in the gully and maze. Through hands-on experiences, students will explore what makes these places meaningful to them and their whānau. Raparapa and Pirorirori will collaborate, holding joint assemblies and participating in shared events.

Students will:

Learn about the environment and how it connects to them.
Discover the names and locations of our Whare Tiaki houses, which are named after local streams.
Develop sequencing and descriptive skills by sharing their observations and experiences.
Recognise and build on their strengths.

Spending time outdoors students will learn:

About shelter-building.
Practice campfire safety.
Prepare and perform entertainment.

To celebrate learning, staff and students invite you to a campfire sing along and entertainment afternoon on Thursday, April 10, 2025, 2-3p.m. This is part of the whole school ‘Celebration of Learning’ that will be occurring on that day.

This opportunity is for students to showcase what they have learnt while enjoying a fun-filled afternoon with whānau. Please bring a blanket/chair for seating and a small snack to share if you wish.

Our Team Name: Raparapa

Wairakei Primary teams have been named after significant geothermal valleys to strengthen the connection to the land and the rich history of the local region. Raparapa is a special geothermal area that can be seen from Oruanui Marae. It feeds the geothermal streams around the marae and holds great importance to the local iwi.

Teachers

Team Leader Angel Chauval (Whaea Angel)

As team leader of Raparapa, I strive to encourage high achievement in fun and engaging ways. I’m passionate about the school and watching children grow using POWER values.

Room 15 Janette Haakma (Whaea Nettie)

Is delighted to continue working with the students she taught at the end of 2024. A dedicated educator and active member of the community, Whaea Nettie is an active parent. She is passionate about fostering children's growth and celebrating their learning journey.

Room 16 Mrs. Berger

Mrs. Berger is thrilled to continue nurturing the growth of her new students as they begin their schooling journey, using structured literacy to help them thrive. She is eager to explore and implement the new curriculum and looks forward to witnessing her students strive and achieve their full potential.

Mrs. Griffin

Is working across the school with students to accelerate learning. She enjoys travelling, spending time with her family and friends, tramping, and camping. She loves arts and crafts, in particular painting and sketching.

Important Reminders

Hats are a must: Bring named navy blue bucket hat every day
Bring a water bottle: Stay hydrated
Be ready for learning: Organising their own things
Keep our school tidy: Take their lunch rubbish home
Be kind: Treat others the way you want to be treated

Key Dates

Week 2: Years 0-3 Cricket tasters at school Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Week 3: In-school camping adventures.
Team assembly Room 16 and buddies hosting Friday, February 21, 2025. 2.15-2.45p.m.

Week 4: Summer Picnic Thursday, February 27, 2025, 4.30-7pm

Week 5: Parent discussions Thursday, March 6, 2025
Team assembly Room 12 hosting Friday, March 7, 2025, 2.15-2.45
Room 16: biking with Cath Friday, March 7, 2025

Week 6: Years 0-3 Hockey tasters at school Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Biking with Cath—Rooms 15 and 16 Friday, March 14, 2025

Week 7: Years 0-3 Athletes Tasters at school Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Biking with Cath — Rooms 15 and 16 Friday, March 21, 2025

Weeks 9 and 10: Room 15 swimming every day for the 2 weeks

Week 9: Team Assembly Room 11 hosting Friday, April 4, 2025, 2.15-2.45p.m.

Week 10: Celebration of Learning, Thursday, April 10, 2025, 2-3p.m.

Angel Chauval

Raparapa Team Leader