Villa Maria College

Kia ora! My name is Simone Greenwood and I am a teacher and within-school leader at Villa Maria College. I am also head of Brodie House and teacher-in-charge of Classical Studies. My main role within the Christchurch Catholic Kāhui Ako involves organising and coordinating the Ako pastoral programme at Villa Maria. Ako Time occurs four times per week and provides a practical structure and focus for wellbeing. This is where we aim to establish and reinforce healthy relationships, a sense of belonging, and positive identity amongst our students. Alongside promoting wellbeing, Ako Time also provides an opportunity for Ako Teachers to academically mentor their students and support them with their goals. This year in Ako Time we have focused on the Te Whare Wapa Whā wellbeing model (developed by Sir Mason Durie), which looks at holistic wellbeing and the importance of keeping things in balance. Through Ako Time we hope to see our girls become resilient, kind, flourishing, successful life-long learners.

“Student wellbeing is strongly linked to learning. A student’s level of wellbeing at school is indicated by their satisfaction with life at school, their engagement with learning and their social-emotional behaviour. It is enhanced when evidence-informed practices are adopted by schools in partnership with families and community. Optimal student wellbeing is a sustainable state, characterised by predominantly positive feelings and attitude, positive relationships at school, resilience, self-optimism and a high level of satisfaction with learning experiences.” (ERO, 2016)

Thanks,

Simone