The Learning Advisory (now named Wānanga) is a new structure dedicated to mentoring and taking care of our students. The philosophy and ethos of Wānanga centres around developing students’ social, emotional and intellectual dispositions.

The overall aim is long-term improvement of student outcomes such as:

• increasing and improving the quality of academic performance,

• improving and increase rates of attendance at school,

• improving their mental health and wellbeing so that they continue to become positive contributors to our society.

The word wānanga in our context means coming together to learn and to grow.

The year levels have a theme guiding the wānanga experience which are explained below.

Years 9-10: Te Koru (the unfurling frond)

• Te Koru represents the unfurling of a ponga - native fern. It symbolises new beginnings and the beginning of growth. It is an opportunity to develop and practise whānaungatanga, under the protection and guidance of kaiako (teacher, mentor). Te Koru is a safe space to develop interests and strengths through experience and matauranga.(growing in wisdom and knowledge)

Years 11-12: Te Arahua (an abundance of pathways)

• Te Arahua represents the pathways that are possible for each individual. Like the many pathways, a braided river takes, each journey may take different turns, cross different paths, and at different speeds. Now is the chance to explore and decide, as the opportunities are endless for you heading into your future.

Year 13: Te Pae Tawhiti (the distant horizon)

• Te Pae Tawhiti is the continued pursuit of wellbeing and represents the desired future through inspired and innovative goals which are articulated with pride and honesty. It represents the values that empower individuals to grow strong and tall, to weather the fiercest of storms. Look to the distant horizon and realise your future through your own actions.

Our wānanga classes will cover many topics, interests and issues that are relevant for students. Some these topics, interests and issues will differ between year levels, however, some things will be common to all levels, for example: digital literacy, and skills, goal setting, academic tracking, Te reo Māori, mental health and wellbeing.

Other topics and issues will be specific to certain year levels, for example with Year 13 students our focus will be preparing students for life beyond school. Topics and interests will include: CV writing, developing students interview skills, developing their leadership skills and attributes etc.

Please email me at dnp@rangiorahigh.school.nz if you have any questions about Wānanga.

Paul Donnelly, Associate Principal