The mighty Kauri Tree is considered by Maori to be the King of the forest and a great taonga (treasure), offering protection and covering for the plants and trees growing below. In the same way our Kauri Studio houses six Year 5 and 6 classes and three Year 3 and 4 classes, who are encouraged to care for and offer protection to the younger students.

One way this happens is through the leadership and service roles undertaken by the Year 5 and 6 Students. Year 6 students undertake a wide range of leadership roles which see them assist with running things such as sporting events (sports leaders), assisting with road safety in the morning drop off zone, the Library, the running of Grandparents Day and many other key activities. The year 5 students are young leaders in training who assist with service jobs which help care for the school.

We know our ‘young trees’ don’t grow in isolation. They grow up under the care of their whanau (family). It was wonderful this week to celebrate the role that Grandparents, and other significant adults play in the lives of our students. The children loved sharing their learning, performing items and looking longingly at the morning tea that was provided. Many Grandparents extended their loving arms to students who do not have grandparents locally. It was a real blessing.

We so appreciate the parent community who helped by providing such a feast for our grandparents. Our motto, “Servant Leadership”, was modelled by our Parent Association volunteers (PTA), prefects and staff who worked so hard to make Grandparent’s Day a success.

As our students grow in wisdom, academically and in community, we appreciate that we stand together as teachers and families. With united love and care our Kauri trees will flourish.

Mrs De Gibson
Head of Kauri Studio
Assistant Head of Primary