Matua Ngaru School | Te Kura Tuatahi O Matua Ngaru is a new school that opened on Feb 7, 2019 for learners from Years 1-8. It is situated on a 3 hectare site at 47-49 Gilbransen Road in Huapai, Auckland and has been built to cater for anticipated population growth in the area. It is part of the third Private Public Partnership between the government and ShapEd (read more here: https://bit.ly/2LpXVcR). The building contains over 3,000m² of educational space, which will accommodate up to 560 learners. The design includes 4 flexible learning spaces, which we call kāinga, over the two level teaching space, the Arohanui Special School satellite unit with attached sensory resource space along with a multipurpose hall, library, 2 specialist learning areas, an administration area and outdoor playground areas including fields and courts.
Matua Ngaru School | Te Kura Tuatahi O Matua Ngaru
DISCOVERING: the Octopus is a curious creature who loves exploring their environment by using the 5 senses. They are playful and interactive, spending time discovering by themselves and with others. The learners in this Kāiinga are learning to discover how their world works and exploring relationships within and outside our Kura.
EXPLORING: the Hammerhead Shark is a resilient and feisty fish that gathers in groups during the day, whilst being a solitary hunter at night. The learners in this Kāinga are developing a growing sense of self, developing the confidence to go forward and explore on their own, while also seeking the support and social interactions that come from being part of a larger group.
GUIDING the Maui Dolphin is a highly social, communicative animal that is skilled at navigating. These animals display empathy for others and embody a collaborative spirit. The learners in this Kāiinga will exemplify the teacher/guide element of tuakana-teina by caring for and helping the younger learners learn while they play and explore.
LEADING the Sperm whale is a nurturing mammal that is highly unique. The learners in this kāiinga require freedom to explore and compassion while they: develop relationships with others, a strong sense of self and learn to belong. Navigation using echolocation is symbolic of how these learners can learn/communicate with a global reach.