LEARNING AT WAIKAIA
As a kura | school, we believe that relationships are the foundation of learning. We work hard to ensure our students and whānau feel welcomed and supported within our school. We hold a fundamental belief that all students learn best when they are happy and actively engaged in the whole learning process. This is reflected in the extensive and high-quality learning programmes and opportunities that we provide, which not only meet our learners’ needs, but also harnesses their strengths, interests and future aspirations.
It is our mission that by the end of their time at Waikaia School, our students are equipped with the necessary positive education tools that will see them flourish as they transition to build upon a rich learning foundation.
NGA TIKANGA/CULTIVATING A POSITIVE CULTURE
PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) is a framework that Waikaia School has chosen to adopt. It looks at behaviour and learning from a whole-of-school as well as an individual child perspective and is based on international evidence.
It is helping New Zealand schools build a culture where positive behaviour and learning is a way of life. We are in the process of introducing and tailoring this to suit our own school environmental and cultural needs.
It’s not about changing the students; it’s about changing the environment, systems and practices you have in place to support them to make positive behaviour choices.
We are very excited to see this in practice!
We will promote a positive school culture through:
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developing behaviour codes that are known and shared by the whole school and community
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setting high expectations for standards of behaviour
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practicing proactive intervention strategies
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follow school procedures and plans for managing and modifying children’s behaviour
If we are concerned about the behaviour of your child, we will inform you immediately it becomes apparent. We encourage a strong liaison between teacher and parents when problems arise.
Likewise, if you have any concerns, please talk this over with the classroom teacher. Many issues are easily resolved if they are acted upon at the earliest opportunity.
At Waikaia School we strive to have a zero tolerance to bullying. If at any time you have concerns, we would like to know.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Our learning programmes allow us to best meet the needs of every learner. We value student voice and provide many opportunities to make choices in their learning. We also have a range of digital tools that we integrate throughout the school to enhance learning.
In the Junior Room learning through play is evident. Children are given a chance for self-directed opportunities to explore and create, while providing students with the structure that prepares them for future learning. Teaching is focussed on providing foundation learning skills, a transition programme that supports children from their ECE to school life
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In the Senior School students work both collaboratively and individually, enjoying learning topics according to their strengths and interests. Children are challenged and extended and the progress they make reflects on the type of learning that is happening. A variety of teaching and learning experiences provide a solid base for learning beyond primary school, and ensure children are equipped with skills they need for the rest of their lives.
We believe our students will grow by developing the strategies, skills and knowledge to become lifelong learners.
SPORTS AT WAIKAIA
Waikaia has proud sporting traditions and this is reflected within the school culture. We compete in a cluster that includes Riversdale and Balfour schools for athletics and cross country and from there students who qualify will represent Waikaia at Northern and Southland.
The Sports Activator regularly visit to give the students opportunities to learn mental and physical skills in all sports.
Swimming lessons are held each year and there are local opportunities for students to be involved in teams for rugby, tennis, cricket, hockey and netball.
CULTURAL LEARNING
Waikaia School teaches the basics of Te Reo to students, focusing on alphabet, numbers, colours, place names, pronunciation days and weeks. They are also learning how to use simple sentences.
Children learn about the importance of cultural aspects within our bi-cultural/multi-cultural country.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Waikaia School is proud of our outstanding natural environment and endeavor to incorporate our local history and surroundings into our education outside the classroom.
COUNTRY SCHOOLS PROGRAMME
This was established in 2006 by several small rural schools to give their Year 7 & 8 students a broader perspective, increased social interaction and learning that was targeted to their age group in order to help transition to high school and foster friendships.
The curriculum includes:
Careers education (including a camp to Dunedin)
Languages
ICT & Digital Technology
Police Programme & Self Defence
Leadership skills
Sexuality Education
Financial Literacy
Art & Cultural projects
Science experiences (at St Peter’s, Gore)
Camp to Deep Cove
ENVIROSCHOOLS
Enviroschools is an environmental action based programme where young people are empowered to design and lead sustainability projects in their schools, neighbourhoods and country.
Waikaia School is proud to have started their journey with the Enviroschools Programme. What that means, is that we commit to a long-term sustainability journey, where tamariki/students connect with and explore the environment, then plan, design and take action in their local places in collaboration with their communities.
TECHNOLOGY
The Year 7 & 8 students have the opportunity to travel to Northern Southland College for a Technology Programme, that includes Food and Design Technology.
