Ā Mātou Akoranga | Our Learning 

Te Kura o Waihārara has two learning groups: Akomanga Teina, for Years 0–3, and Akomanga Tuakana, for Years 4–8. As a small kura, we also learn together as one whānau, creating regular opportunities for tuakana–teina learning, shared inquiry and whole-kura experiences.

Learning is planned around the strengths, needs and developmental stages of each ākonga. Small learning groups and strong relationships enable kaiako to respond flexibly, provide differentiated support and create culturally responsive learning experiences that build confidence, independence and belonging.

Our local curriculum is grounded in Waihārara, Muriwhenua and Te Hiku o Te Ika. Learning draws on our people, whakapapa, local histories, whenua, wai and moana, and our relationships with whānau, hapū and Ngāi Takoto. Literacy, pāngarau, inquiry and oral language are strengthened through meaningful contexts that connect learning with the lives, identities and aspirations of our uri and their whānau.

Te reo Māori me ōna tikanga are woven through kura life. Opportunities to strengthen confidence and capability in te reo Māori continue across the kura, alongside our developing Kura ā Iwi direction and our commitment to tamariki knowing who they are, where they come from, and their connections to whānau, hapū, iwi and whenua. 

Hands-on learning, local experiences, the arts, sport, environmental learning and opportunities beyond the classroom are also important parts of our programme. These experiences give uri different ways to explore, create, collaborate, solve problems and demonstrate their learning.

Through Ako, Rangatiratanga and Kaitiakitanga, we seek to grow capable and confident learners who know who they are, understand where they come from, care for their people and places, and are ready to contribute to the future of their whānau, hapū, iwi and Muriwhenua.