Cultural
Cultural connections are really valued at Whangarei Heads School. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed to our kura, and we ensure that this diversity is celebrated within classrooms and in such events like productions, festivals, artwork and topic work.
For example, our school introduced an annual Kapa Haka festival, named ‘Te Whanga’, which includes our three local schools; Raurimu, Onerahi and Parua Bay. We have our very own Kapa Haka roopu, and we celebrate individuals and groups, embracing their culture and ways of doing things.
It is the intention of Whangarei Heads School to enhance cultural connections within our school community by building, growing and valuing relationships. We wish to prepare all our children for participation in a society that includes Maori, by raising awareness of things Maori and encouraging greater understanding and acceptance. Te reo Maori and tikanga Maori perspectives are integrated into and become a natural part of our daily programmes.
We will provide instruction, experiences and learning opportunities that reflect New Zealand’s cultural diversity and the unique position of Maori culture. This will be done by –
– Consulting with our Maori community and involving whanau whenever possible
– Making triennial visits to local marae; or similar experience
– Following Maori protocol during formal occasions
– Supporting a kapa haka group
The percentage of of students that identify as Maori sits at 16%. Our school reviews the achievement of these students in line with our goals and targets. No significant difference in achievement levels has been found for our Maori students.
PDF Kua tae lyrics (our unique school song)