During the first week of October, Suzy Waaka and Anna Reihana from WAVE (Wellbeing & Vitality in Education) organised two days of professional development at the marae for staff who work with youth from the Community College and the YMCA.
The aim was to equip participants with a better understanding of important elements that underpin the lives and identities of their Māori students, so that as tutors and mentors, they are more able to engage and support in a meaningful way.
Day one began with a pōwhiri and whakawhanautanga, followed by some local history. In the afternoon we got a little more hands-on, making and practicing poi, harakeke and getting physical as we learned some traditional Māori games.
After a fabulous dinner we set up the wharenui and snuggled down for an enjoyable pakiwaitara from Tewera and Suzy – there is nothing better than a few good stories before bed.
Day two began with a tasty breakfast, we then tidied up the wharenui and had a tour around the marae and the surrounding area. This was followed by an informative and inspiring presentation from Hana O’Regan and Nathan Mikaere Wallis, which was called Tai timu, tai pari Whakatūria te tumu o Taiohi.
Hana and Nathan took us on a journey that looked at who our taiohi are, what they need, how we can be more engaging and effective teachers and how we can provide an environment that supports their learning.
They are both passionate and inspiring presenters who not only provided valuable information but also gave us some concrete ideas on how to better serve taiohi who come to learn. After the presentation our hui finished with a poroporoaki.
There are many people who contributed to making this such an amazing experience. Our thanks go to Gwen and Jayne for their efficiency and for making this experience possible (and relatively painless). To Ash Bower and the kaimahi team, your kai was outstanding. To Jocelyn Torepe and Kalenia and Ngahuia Te Rahui Harris, thank you for passing on your skills and knowledge. And lastly, thank you to Tewera and Suzy for making this such a fantastic experience for everyone. We would all do it again in a heartbeat.
Guest speakers Hana O’Regan and Nathan Mikaere Wallis.
Listening to Hana and Nathan’s presentation.
Learning how to use the poi.
The ladies feeling comfortable and cosy and ready for a moe.