Kahui Ako Update

On Monday 27th of June, we had our first Kahui Ako (Community of Leaning) Teacher Only Day in well over a year as two previous allocated TOD’s had been cancelled due to Covid. Because of this, there was a real sense of anticipation at meeting face-to-face as three schools - Jireh, Westminster and KingsWay School. The main reason of the event was to investigate student wellbeing initiatives.

We began our day with a time of worship and then listened to an address by Graeme Budler, who is the lead principal of our Kahui Ako. After this, we were given the opportunity to listen to a talk given by Jo Webb, from ImpACT Mental Health. Her presentation included ideas on what mental wellbeing is as well as covering different aspects of mental wellbeing including dealing with conflict, being kind to oneself, and the importance of forgiveness.

Following this, there were a series of workshops which were delivered by the Kahui Ako team in addition to staff members from each of the schools. Workshops were purposefully directed towards the needs of different age groups. Teachers were able to choose two out of fourteen workshops. A small example of the topics offered were: Emotional Agility, Legacy and Creative Learning.

After lunch teachers gathered again together in year groups to discuss any ‘take outs’ they had learned that day which they could practice in their own classrooms. The last session was dedicated to looking towards the future.

Evaluations from the Teacher Only Day have been incredibly positive. It could not have happened without the presence and passion of the Kahui Ako team and the support of each school community. We know that this is a huge journey of which this day was a small step. We appreciate the support and prayers of our KingsWay School community as we prayerfully endeavour to ensure that student wellbeing is enhanced in the classroom.

The Kahui Ako Team