Effective teachers

At Ruawai Primary School and Kapiti College, whānau knowledge is valued as teachers construct contexts for learning that reflect the cultural significance and history of their location.

At Whangarei Intermediate, teacher Joe Beaumont works to create a classroom environment which is both supportive and challenging. The focus is on ensuring that every student sees what they are capable of achieving.

At Rotorua Lakes High School maths teacher Tony Renshaw has changed what is going on in his classroom to encourage Māori student participation and achievement.

What do teachers have to do to make students feel that they can achieve? What is the basis of an effective learning relationship? (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Teachers making a difference’, 2002) .

Students and teachers reflect on the qualities of a teacher that makes a difference. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Teachers making a difference’, 2002) .

It has been recognised that low expectations of Māori students along with some beliefs about how Māori learn can have an impact on how well these students perform. (Extract from ‘Te ManaKōrero: Teachers making a difference’, 2004).

School leaders need to respond positively, and in a culturally-appropriate way, so that Māori students can realise their potential.

Just as teacher-student partnerships need to be culturally responsive and mutually respectful, so do the partnerships between school, whānau and iwi.

One of the most significant partnerships for student achievement is that between teacher and student.

In light of the education system’s failure to address the needs of Māori students, educators need to learn how to engage those students more effectively, in all aspects of their learning.