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Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated recognises Education as a key to success.
The Māori Education Strategy 2008-2012 has found that in line with Sir Apirana Ngata’s famous aphorism about pursuing the benefits of a dual heritage, Māori parents are adamant their children should be exposed to the best of all worlds (Penetito, 1998; Tomoana, 2005). The educational aspirations of Māori parents in Ngāti Kahungunu are no different to those found elsewhere; that our children do well, finish school and go on to tertiary education (Cunningham, Stevenson, & Tassell, 2005). From a Māori point of view, why culture and language are important considerations in the education of Māori children in Aotearoa is ultimately linked to issues about identity. Dr Wally Penetito states: “Why is there a problem with Māori student school performance? – because the cultural discontinuity between Māori student home and family and the institution of school are gross (Penetito, 1998, p. 102).
The Ngāti Kahungunu Cultural standards project was developed with the following purpose: Ngāti Kahungunu history and culture are an integral part of the teachings and learning’s in Ngāti Kahungunu rohe. Early childhood and school settings should ensure Ngāti Kahungunu children enjoy educational success as Ngāti Kahungunu and as Māori.
We will develop a set of standards, including a professional development programme for schools, teachers and whānau. These resources or services for schools will create partnerships with Ngāti Kahungunu to support practice that shows, promotes and values local context, culture and content to reflect the community and students’ culture. This project will create opportunities for teachers and whānau to support understanding and the mutual benefits of successful engagement and participation in mainstream education.
Click here to read more about the Kahungunu Cultural Standards.
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