​POUNAMU ATAWHAI
GIFT OF LEARNING
LIFE IN POUNAMU ATAWHAI
CREATING A SELF-DIRECTED LEARNER
In Pounamu Atawhai we want each student to be well equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, values and sense of identity they need to give them the best chances in the next stage of their education and life. Our goal is to provide opportunities so that students can take ownership over their own learning across a broad range of learning areas.
‘The capacity for self-direction is the foundation for learning. Students who develop a sense of responsibility for their own learning are prepared to master rigorous academic content, think critically and analytically, communicate effectively and collaborate productively. ‘ (M.Martinez & D.McGrath, 2014)
PROMOTING CREATIVITY
Young children’s creativity can be nurtured through educational settings in three respects: the creative environment, creative programmes and creative teachers and ways of teaching.
You will see a strong creative program in Pounamu Atawhai allowing learners to play, experiment and be exposed to areas of our rich curriculum. Our role as teachers, is to provide the optimum balance between structure and freedom of expression.
RIVERDALE EXPLORERS GROUPS
Riverdale takes great pride in our explorer programs that run throughout the school in a variety of different areas. Our aim is to both extend and provide an opportunity for learners to both enhance and discover their passion.
Each and every individual has something special to offer, and it is our job to help guide each student in their desired direction.
NGA MATAPONO & TE AKO RITENGA
We believe the future holds an exciting challenge for our students. The learning environment we develop will play a vital role in ensuring our students remain open to new ideas, expand their horizons through their own dreams, talents and personal views, and are equipped with the personal values, key competencies and resilience to help them become life-long learners and effective citizens. Te Ako Ritenga is our learning process to help develop our children into critical thinkers when faced with real world problems.
SO HOW DOES POUNAMU ATAWHAI WORK?
Pounamu Atawhai has three teachers, Mr Bron, Mr Carter and Miss Fairbairn, who work closely together so each child has the benefit from learning different skills from a variety of teachers. Students also gravitate towards a teacher they trust and like, that further strengthens their learning capabilities throughout the year. You will have parent interviews and receive written reports from your childs whanau teacher. If you have any questions or concerns then please see your childs whanau teacher first, then the team leader Mr Bron if you are not satisfied with the outcome.
Your childs whanau teacher will be responsible for tracking academic performance, building a close and trusting relationship as well as having an in-depth knowledge of the unique personality and learning behaviors your child has.
Te Wheke (LC 9 &10) is our working space. Children spend their time learning in structured Math and Literacy workshops to improve skills and knowledge. This is also the space to research and build an in-depth knowledge of a particular passion, skill or area that they find motivating.
Tuetaeporoporo (LC 8) is our creative space. This space is available for children to show what they have been learning or researching in Te Wheke. The goal for children is to represent their new learning in a purposeful way using the tools available in this unique space. These tools include, but are not limited to, 3D Printing, Construction, Art, Science, Maths, Drama, Music and Technology. This is the time for teachers to connect learning and encourage 21st-century skills such as collaboration, on-going reflection, critical thinking and problem-solving.
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