After a year of dedication, 19 of our students recently graduated from the Children's University programme. Congratulations to you all.

Earlier this year, we embarked on an exciting new journey in partnership with Massey University, joining a transformative program called Te Mātāpuna Mātātahi | Children’s University (CU). Amesbury collaborated with Te Kunenga Ki Pūrehuroa (Massey University) to create a unique opportunity that extended beyond traditional classroom learning. This initiative aimed to inspire tamariki to develop a love for learning, explore new experiences, and envision the vast possibilities that await them in the future.

The program was introduced to our Year 5 and 6 students as an optional opportunity, and we were thrilled to have nineteen enthusiastic participants sign up. CU, run by Massey University, is designed to reward tamariki for making positive choices in their learning journeys. The program celebrated the effort and time students invested in voluntary learning activities.

Each participant joined through Children’s University and was equipped with a passport and an online portal account to document their experiences. Every time they completed an activity, they earned a stamp in their passport, symbolizing their participation and learning. As students accumulated hours throughout the year, they reached significant milestones that culminated in an extraordinary event: a Graduation Ceremony.

This prestigious ceremony, held at Massey University’s Dominion Museum Building, The Great Hall, celebrated the commitment, resilience, and personal growth of each tamaiti. On November 4th, Urs, Kirat, and the whānau of the participating ākonga had the honor of witnessing this special occasion. It was a moment of immense pride as we reflected on the dedication and enthusiasm each student had shown throughout this journey.

Congratulations to Joshua H, Arthur Y, Eden, Alexander Z, Monty, Hatem, Calista, Caelyn, Sueli, Paige, Gabriella, Pranav, Isabelle P, Divan, Annie O, Timothy, Victoria, Joshua R, and Marcus G. for stepping up and embracing this incredible challenge. Your courage, determination, and enthusiasm have set a strong foundation for your future and paved the way for other tamariki to be inspired by your journey. You have shown us all the power of curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. By participating in this program, you have taken the first steps toward building a brighter future for yourselves and a future for other tamariki. Ka mau te wehi—amazing effort, team! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what you will achieve next. Keep shining brightly and continue to lead the way for others to follow!

Watch this space early next year to register our senior tamariki and if you have any questions, please contact kirat@amesbury.school.nz.