by Debbie Robertson
PPS Whānau Groups
Debbie Robertson — March 1, 2021
Whānau groups provide opportunities for children to work together and build relationships within the school from new entrant to Y6.
Our Whānau groups are named after 5 native trees: Rimu, Matai, Totara, Kahikatea and Kauri.
These trees were planted in 2011 by the students - the fifth tree was added more recently in our native garden in the quiet area.
Whanau – family - is one of the culture defining features of Papanui School reflecting our goals and values.
Whanau groups are a method for:
- Building a family atmosphere within the school,
- Developing and maintaining a buddy system
- Providing support for new children/ younger children,
- Provide leadership opportunities for year 4 - 6 children,
- Creating opportunities to build connections and relationships
- Providing support for teaching staff, by creating a ‘trusted colleague’.
- Promote school values and goals
- Having fun and developing social skills
