Park Estate School

Can you imagine a school changing its name and location? That’s exactly what happened to Park Estate School. Originally located on Park Estate Road in Papakura, Auckland, Park Estate School served students from Years 1 to 6. The school was known for its diverse cultural makeup, reflecting the community it served, with a significant Māori student population. In 2014, Park Estate School was undergoing a period of significant transformation. The school, with the help of the Ministry of Education, was working to improve its curriculum, teaching practices, and connections with the community. Teachers were engaged in professional development to enhance their teaching of literacy and their understanding of the National Standards. The school was also making strides in aligning its curriculum with the local community’s history and culture, providing opportunities for teachers, parents, and whānau to contribute to the learning programs. By 2017, Park Estate School continued to progress. The school focused on promoting equitable outcomes for all students. Teachers used restorative and child-centered approaches, contributing to a more welcoming and inclusive environment that valued Māori language, culture, and identity. The school actively partnered with parents and whānau, holding hui and fono to discuss students’ learning. School leaders used achievement information to identify students needing learning acceleration. They met regularly to discuss student progress and share effective teaching strategies. The school offered various programs and initiatives to support learning, particularly in reading and writing. In July 2022, Park Estate School embarked on a new chapter. The school relocated to a new site and was renamed Mangapikopiko School by Ngāti Tamaoho. The new name and location signified a renewed commitment to its community and its focus on inspiring learners, encouraging creativity, and connecting with the community to make learning meaningful. The new Mangapikopiko School continues to prioritize building strong learning partnerships with the school community. Its goal remains focused on creating a strong sense of belonging for all children and whānau and valuing the Treaty of Waitangi, the local people, and their history.