Our school has 13 classes. We are very proud of and enjoy the fact that our children and whānau represent a range of ethnicities – New Zealand Pakehā (64%), Maori (13%), Pasifika (11%), Asian (7%), other European (5%), and Middle Eastern, Latin American, African and Canadian (4%). Our Māori tamariki whakapapa to Kai Tahu, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahungunu and other iwi.

Our 2019 Education Review Office report stated that our students benefit from a broad, well-integrated and responsive curriculum, have many opportunities to learn about New Zealand’s bicultural heritage, and increasing opportunities for collaborative learning. ERO also noted that positive education practices promote students’ wellbeing and social skills, and children with diverse learning and wellbeing needs are quickly identified and well supported. In addition, the reviewers commented that staff work in collaborative ways to ensure students receiving additional support have planned opportunities to consolidate their learning, which includes working closely with external experts and agencies, and that these effective targeted interventions have resulted in high rates of accelerated progress.

Our philosophy is to enable each child to achieve their personal best across an engaging balanced curriculum in an environment which is secure, stimulating and friendly.

Self-esteem, success, motivation and confidence to learn and function in New Zealand’s society are fostered. Parent and community interest, involvement and support are valued and encouraged.  Our vision and philosophy is developed and taught through our school values, quality teaching, and the New Zealand Curriculum. All of these are underpinned and supported by our Positive Education programme which focuses on positive identity, citizenship and relationships.

The teaching team is experienced, capable and committed to high quality teaching and learning, and to nurturing and valuing the individuality of all children. There is a strong focus on quality literacy and mathematics programmes supported by a highly effective and engaging wider local curriculum.

We celebrate and embrace our nation’s Māori heritage through the inclusion of Te Ao Māori, the teaching of Te Reo Māori and a focus on tikanga. Our kapa haka group is known as Rehutai, we have an active Whānau Roopu, and two Māori Board members.

A strong partnership has been established with parents and caregivers who actively support us.  The Board is dedicated to effective governance – delivering on the expectations of the school community and working collaboratively with the Principal and staff.  There is also a proactive Parent Teacher Association.

“A caring community where everyone learns and flourishes”  This statement encapsulates what belonging to Tainui School is all about.