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Cashmere Avenue School is fortunate to have a
supportive whanau group who meet regularly The whanau group consists
of parents who are interested in the development of Maori education
at our school They provide support and guidance for teachers where
necessary and are a positive role model for all children at our
school. It is open to all parents who want to learn more about Maori
language and culture regardless of their ethnicity and knowledge
of taha Maori.
The
whanau group has established links with whanau members at other
local schools, sharing ideas and resources with them. Our aim is
to provide a seamless transition and support group for children
as they move through the local system.
Every
year the whanau group play a key role in assisting the Year 3 /
4 teachers organise a noho marae for their syndicate. This includes
preparing children for all aspects of a powhiri. The whanau group
have also assisted with the teaching of the school’s Te Reo
and Kapahaka groups.
Past
initiatives have included the purchase of Kapahaka uniforms for
our group. Wel also train children to lead our school when we do
formal powhiri. This is an ongoing development to strengthen the
children’s skills and understanding in this important aspect
of Tikanga Maori.
The
whanau motif was designed by a Year 5 child and is a feature of
the Kapahaka uniforms. The blue pattern represents the view of the
Wellington Harbour from our school and the surrounding mountains
while the green koru are the tamariki
( children ) who are at the heart of our school.
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