Students teaching students is a powerful tool in teaching and learning.  This week we take a closer look at what is happening in Mahuta to create a climate where ako is valued. In the photo above you can see Caitlyn as a tuakana.  She is leading a girls book group by sharing the most exciting part of her novel to engage the girls in Reading.  Inferential and literal questioning followed, then Caitlyn shared her analysis of the novel's lead character - Granny.

Ako is evident in many classroom practices.  This week we are looking at Tukana Teina  - students supporting students in their learning. This is a powerful way to celebrate learning, build positive relationships and self-esteem and embed deep understanding of skills and strategy across the curriculum.

As students master skills and strategies they become tuakana, or experts, and then share their knowledge or on-teach in order to support their peers - teina.  By doing so, they embed their own understanding of the skill or strategy as they articulate the processes involved in this learning.  As teachers, we use this method of engaging learners across the curriculum.  It is very empowering for us all. You will see many examples of ako in the photo gallery to illustrate the joy and engagement of tuakana teina for us all.

Our doors are always open to you if you'd like to come and see tuakana teina in action.  We would love to have you join us.

Mā te wā

Lisa McWilliam

 Our upcoming events include:

Tuesday 21st March : CAT Maths Exams. Students and parents have been advised if they will be sitting this exam.

Friday 24th March : The Pupil Council are holding a "Wacky Tacky Mufti Day"to raise funds for their Star Week at the end of the year. Students can come to school dressed in the most wacky tacky way they like. Donations of a gold coin donation for participation will be collected on the day.

Week 9

Monday 27th March -31st March : Scholastic Library Book Fair

Friday 31st March: Year 4- 8 Cross Country