A vision of bright futures. That’s what comes to mind as we stand before Manurewa West School. This school is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a place where young minds grow. It is a place where dreams take flight.
Manurewa West School first opened its doors in 1963. Back then, 362 students were enrolled. Imagine the excitement and anticipation on that first day. Staff understood very well the importance of interesting programmes. They organized trips. These trips included visits to the Manurewa Fire Station. Students also visited the Auckland Police Station and the Meremere Power Station.
Today, Manurewa West School continues to thrive. It stands as a beacon of learning in the Manurewa community. The school has a roll of 425 students in November 2024. The school caters to children from years 1 to 6. The school is a co-educational state primary school. Kogie Naidoo is the principal.
Manurewa West School values every student. The school wants each child to be confident. It wants each child to be a curious learner. The school wants each child to be a lifelong learner. These values are at the heart of everything they do.
In 2018, the school decided to revise its maths curriculum. Deputy Principal Shea Bowden introduced mixed-ability class groupings. She incorporated real-life contexts into the lessons. She included the cultures of the school’s communities. By 2021 student achievement in maths improved. Bowden won the Primary School Apple at the 2022 National Excellence in Teaching Awards.
Manurewa West School embraces its diverse community. About 40 percent of the children are of Māori and Pacific heritage. There is a growing number of Indian and Asian children. The school focuses on the connectedness of language. It focuses on culture and identity. This focus shapes their curriculum development.
The school is part of the Te Kaahui Ako O Manurewa. This Community of Learning helps students to develop. The school works closely with local early learning services. It also strengthens student transitions.
Manurewa West School is located at 31 McKean Avenue. This is in Manurewa, Auckland. The school’s phone number is 09-2668631. You can also visit their website. The address is www.manurewawest.school.nz.
So, as you leave Manurewa West School remember its vision. Dream, Believe, Fly. May it inspire you to reach for your own dreams. Remember the importance of learning.