Monday saw Haeata lucky enough to have the wealth of expertise and mana that Taumaloto brings from his previous role at Tangaroa College.

After a 10 year long stint at Tangaroa College, Haeata was privileged to welcome Taumaloto in to the Haeata community at the Mihi Whakatau on Monday morning. Taumaloto had a 10 person strong support crew who flew down from Auckland, who were as sorry to see him depart, as we are grateful to have him in this role. 

In his previous role Taumaloto wore many different hats in teaching, learning support and sports coaching. His personal philosophy of getting to know each child and supporting them in their challenges motivated him to set up different hubs in the school including 'Poutama', which build extra support around kids with high truancy to support their learning needs . "I can see the benefits of this learning because I've seen too many children fall through the cracks because of the traditional pressure of schooling," Taumaloto says of the starting his new role at Haeata School.

Coming from the multicultural hub of South Auckland he brings with him his personal mantra of creating and allowing a safe space for children to thrive, "With the Pasifica community I still want them to be who they are.. its about providing that space for them to become better versions of themselves".

We are privileged to have Taumaloto supporting us at Haeata, and wish him all the best in his transition in to the community. If you see Taumaloto around stop by and have a quick kōrero!