Mana Ake Kaimahi

Mana Ake is the result of additional funding provided by the government in response to the ongoing effects on children of the Canterbury earthquakes. 

The initiative aims to provide early intervention and support for teachers, families and whanau when children are experiencing ongoing issues that impact their wellbeing. The service can support individual children and groups of children and provide advice, guidance and support for teachers and parents/whanau. 

This term our school, along with other schools in our Cluster (Russley, Avonhead, Westburn) will be working together to develop systems to utilise this resource. 

We will have a team of three dedicated “kaimahi” workers, who come from a range of NGO (Non Government Organisation) backgrounds, involved in supporting mental health and wellbeing of children and families. These kaimahi will begin working with children and families across the cluster in the next few weeks.

Thank you to Rosalie, Carol and Kate for introducing yourselves below.

Rosalie Sprosen
Kia ora, my name is Rosalie. I have been a full time classroom teacher for the last 16 years and now very excited to be working as a Mana Ake Kaimahi in your school. I am married with two adult children and have lived in Christchurch for almost 37 years. Family is very important to me and we often catch up for brunch, coffee or to do one of the many walks in and around Christchurch, Boulder Bay and Harry Ells being two of our favourite. Working alongside children has always been a huge interest of mine and as a classroom teacher it has been truly rewarding to watch children develop their own interests and skills to help them become confident and curious about the world they live in. One of my reasons for becoming a Mana Ake Kaimahi was because of the vision that is held within Mana Ake, “A stronger tomorrow.” I believe this is what we all want for our children / tamariki and with supporting each other to create this, anything is possible.

I am really looking forward to meeting with you.
Ka kite
Rosalie Sprosen

Carol Daw
I grew up in Christchurch on the North West side of town with 2 brothers and one sister.
Now days I live by the beach, I adore being close enough to hear the ocean roar.

I have a love of gardening, spending many hours pottering around. I also love the gym and yoga after work; I like nothing more than to attend on my way home.

I have three adult children and eight grandchildren who bring much joy. Sadly granddad passed away however his memory remains alive in these gorgeous little people.

My work background is 25+ years as a social worker.

I have experience in a Child and Family residential setting, Alcohol and other Drugs, Young Parents, Family Harm, Care and Protection Advisory Panel and School Social Work.

I am looking forward to coming back full circle from the where I grew up and attended school to work with those who call the North West home and work. 

Kate Hamilton
Kia ora, my name is Kate and I am excited to be part of an initiative that aims to work alongside children and their whanau as they overcome barriers to wellbeing.

My career has been based in education, starting in a mainstream school, moving to alternative education, then becoming an RTLB. I find working with students, families, teachers and agencies very rewarding. I am always learning as we explore better options for motivation and solutions to obstacles.

Recently I have spent time counselling and being a resource worker with both teens and adults in schools, an addictions recovery centre, Oranga Tamariki family homes, and The Women’s Centre.

I look forward to meeting you and some of your tamariki.