We continue to value and support our whanaungatanga with Avonside Girls High School which continues to grow each year in our collaborative partnership journey.

The P.E department in particular has been very supportive and always looks for ways for our ākonga to be included in joint learning opportunities. We enjoyed working with the P.E. leadership group of Year 12's and Year 13's. Our learners participated in a variety of activities and games in which the Avonside Girls' High School leaders assessed the needs and skills of our learners and then adapted and modified games and activities to make them fun and engaging for all.

Pina Lissaman's Ako group developed, created, and read stories they had made themselves. A great deal of thought had gone into this and was evident in the enjoyment seen by our ākonga. Some had previously never had any connection with a person who has an intellectual or physical disability before. By the end of the four week block everyone had grown in confidence and had gained a deeper understanding of how to communicate and learn from each other.

Thank you to Lilian, an ex student of Avonside Girls' High School who has supported us with our Boccia practice and skill development sessions. This enabled us to participate in the Sport Canterbury tournament in Term 3 and really contributed to the improvement of our Boccia skills. Unfortunately we didn’t win!

We had a new collaborative group attend each Friday from the Police Pathway Year 13 programme. They came and supported us to learn and play board games, focussing on turn taking and choice making, which was a lot of fun for all. The Avonside Girls' High School learners quickly formed really positive relationships and displayed increased confidence and empathy.

Thanks to the wonderful staff who have made connections with us throughout the year, especially the amazing Katrina Boxall who leads the way breaking down barriers and supporting inclusive practice.

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi ,engari he toa takitini.

My successes are not mine alone, they are ours. The greatest successes we will have are from working together.

Waikahu/Ferndale Te Ahu School team