Krista Kerr – Pōhutukawa Head Teacher
As a teacher, I am continually reminded that the strength of our school sits in the relationships between tamariki, whānau, and the wider community. Over the past year, it has been heartening to see these connections in action, with many people contributing in different ways to support the learning and wellbeing of our children. This sense of shared responsibility is what helps make our school the warm, connected place that it is.
One of the most visible examples of this in the Preschool is the statue that now sits near the main entrance. Many whānau and visitors have commented on how welcoming and thoughtful it feels as they arrive, and it sets a tone of care, belonging, and intention that reflects who we are as a school. In Montessori education, we place great importance on the prepared environment and the role it plays in supporting independence, wellbeing, and a sense of respect for place. Each of our environments are not just a backdrop to learning, but an active part of it, shaping how tamariki move, interact, and feel about being here.
We are also grateful for the resources funded through Pink Shirt Day, which have supported conversations across the Area School about kindness, inclusion, and looking after one another. These values are not taught in isolation. They are lived each day through shared language, modelling, and opportunities for tamariki to practice empathy and care in real ways.
Events such as Wheels Day are another lovely example of our school community working together for the benefit of tamariki. These days are not about fundraising, but about joy, connection, and shared experience. Watching children arrive excitedly with their wheels, supporting one another, and simply enjoying being together is a reminder of how important these moments are in building a strong sense of belonging.
We also see the impact of community support in practical ways across the school. Appreciation for the Primary basketballs and floorball sticks that were funded last year, which have been well used and have supported positive participation, teamwork, and enjoyment in sport. Thanks have also been passed on from Kōkiri Marae for the toy donation, a gesture that reflects the reciprocal relationships we value beyond our school gates. The PTA continues to play an important role in supporting projects and resources like these, alongside the many other ways our community contributes. Thank you to our whole community who support these PTA initiatives by buying the special items selected to be fundraisers, such as the beautiful tea towels currently on offer, or by attending events. It really does make a tangible difference to our school.
Montessori education is built on the belief that children thrive when they are surrounded by a connected, respectful community that values contribution and shared responsibility. What we see in our school is this philosophy in action – whānau, staff, and wider community working together to create an environment where tamariki feel valued, capable, and supported to grow into confident, caring individuals.
On behalf of the teaching team, thank you to everyone who continues to give their time, energy, and care. Together, we are strengthening our school community and, in doing so, making a real difference to the lives of our tamariki.
Naku noa
