We are very lucky to access Kiwi Can lessons once a week for our Year 1-6 students. Here is some information about why this programme is so important in building positive characteristics and values.

The Graeme Dingle Foundation & Kiwi Can: Inspiring Young Kiwis

The Graeme Dingle Foundation is a leading youth development organisation dedicated to transforming young lives across New Zealand. Founded with a vision to equip young people with the tools they need to thrive, the foundation runs a variety of school and community-based programs that build resilience, confidence, and a sense of purpose. One of its flagship programmes, Kiwi Can, plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation by instilling essential life skills from an early age.

What is Kiwi Can?

Kiwi Can is a vibrant, interactive programme delivered to primary and intermediate school students across New Zealand. It focuses on teaching values and life skills that help children develop strong character, positive relationships, and resilience. Through fun, high-energy lessons, students learn the importance of respect, integrity, resilience, and teamwork—core values that set them up for future success in school, relationships, and life.

How It Works

Kiwi Can is facilitated by trained leaders who deliver structured, age-appropriate lessons to students for 45 minutes each week. The programme follows a structured curriculum that rotates through key themes such as:

• Positive Relationships – Encouraging respect, kindness, and teamwork.

• Resilience – Teaching students how to cope with challenges and setbacks.

• Integrity – Promoting honesty, responsibility, and doing the right thing.

• Respect – Fostering appreciation for oneself, others, and the environment.

Each session is designed to be interactive and engaging, incorporating games, role-playing, and group discussions. This hands-on approach helps students develop practical skills they can use in everyday situations, from handling conflicts to working collaboratively with others.

Why Kiwi Can Matters

Research shows that social and emotional learning is just as critical as academic success in shaping a child's future. Kiwi Can provides a positive, structured environment where students can develop self-confidence, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Schools that implement Kiwi Can report improved student behaviour, stronger peer relationships, and a more inclusive school culture.

Beyond the classroom, Kiwi Can instils values that stay with young people throughout their lives, influencing their decision-making, leadership potential, and ability to contribute positively to their communities.

The Graeme Dingle Foundation believes that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through programmes like Kiwi Can, we are empowering young New Zealanders to dream big, develop strong values, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.