Te Kete Ako

Learning Objectives

By engaging with this resource, students will:

Cultural Context: Te Whare Tapa Whā Model

The Te Whare Tapa Whā model reminds us that successful transition requires balance across four dimensions:

The Four Pillars of Wellbeing

  1. Taha Tinana (Physical Wellbeing): Maintain healthy routines with sleep, nutrition and exercise
  2. Taha Hinengaro (Mental/Emotional Wellbeing): Develop positive mindset and stress management
  3. Taha Whānau (Social Wellbeing): Build supportive relationships
  4. Taha Wairua (Spiritual Wellbeing): Connect with identity, values and purpose

Tikanga Considerations: Remember to mihi (greet) teachers properly, respect shared spaces, and participate in school karakia (prayers) and waiata (songs).

Essential Skills Toolkit

1. Time Management

Use this weekly planner template to balance schoolwork, activities and personal time:

My Weekly Schedule

Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8:00-9:00
9:00-10:00

Tip: Include whānau time and cultural activities in your schedule.

2. Organisation Check

I have a dedicated study space at home
My school bag is packed the night before
I use a diary or digital planner
I have systems for organising notes
I know where to find school resources

3. Relationship Building

Practice introducing yourself using a mihi:

"Ko [your mountain] te maunga
Ko [your river] te awa
Ko [your iwi] te iwi
Ko [your name] tōku ingoa"

Great effort! Remember - it's okay if you're still learning your pepeha. What matters is showing respect by trying.

Success Rubric

Criteria Developing Achieving Excelling
Whanaungatanga (Relationships) Occasionally interacts with others Builds positive relationships with some peers/staff Actively contributes to class/school community
Organisation Sometimes prepared for class Usually has required materials Consistently well-prepared with systems in place
Time Management Needs reminders for deadlines Meets most deadlines independently Plans ahead and balances commitments well
Cultural Engagement Observes school tikanga Participates in cultural activities Actively contributes to cultural life of school

Extension Activities

1. Whakataukī (Proverb) Reflection

Choose one of these whakataukī and write how it relates to your transition:

2. School Hīkoi (Tour)

With a buddy, create a map of important school locations including:

Teacher Implementation Notes

Delivery Suggestions:

Differentiation:

Resources & References