Learning Curve

One size does not fit all when it comes to education, which is why one new school in Otara, Manukau City is setting a precedent for its student-focused learning environment. Te Whanau o Tupuranga, a designated Maori bilingual secondary school for students in Years 7 to 13, recently opened its new campus within the grounds of Clover Park Middle School.

Principal Ann Milne says although the school has a 20-year history as a Maori bilingual unit, it has only been a school in its own right since 2006. And, until now, it has shared facilities with the Clover Park school.

"The new campus was specifically designed to meet the needs of our students," Milne says. "For example, the classrooms have no walls or doors. Instead we have large open-plan spaces that allow students and staff to flow between areas as necessary. There is also no single teaching point and no fixed whiteboards or data projectors. All the equipment had to be moveable and able to go where students learn."

The school incorporates a marae, a whanau centre for family support, and a technology block. This is designed so students can work in small groups, and to integrate technology within other curriculum areas.

For more details, contact Te Whanau o Tupuranga, 51 Othello Dr, Otara, Auckland 2023, phone (09) 274 5807. Website: www.tupuranga.school.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas