Considering Maungaraki School’s location on the western hills, I ask you to imagine the view from here. It is pretty stunning. Maungaraki School is more than just a place of learning. It is a vibrant hub for this community. The school opened its doors on April 19, 1999. This came about through the merging of Otonga and Puketiro Schools. The aim was to create one strong school. This would serve the needs of the growing Maungaraki community.
Back in 1967, Puketiro School first opened. It stood right where Maungaraki School is today. Otonga School followed in 1977. Its land is now mostly private homes. Think about that transition as you stand here. Two schools became one.
Maungaraki School has grown significantly over the years. A new classroom and music suite were added in 2007. More classrooms and a staffroom were added in 2010. In 2015, the school opened its first Modern Learning Environment. This created flexible learning spaces. Another four-classroom block was refurbished in 2016. This helped it better meet the needs of modern learners. In 2018, another classroom was built. In 2019, a prefabricated class was moved onto the site. A three-classroom block plus a new library and community space were developed in 2022.
The school typically has between 360 and 390 students enrolled. An enrolment scheme is in place because of its popularity. Maungaraki School is a Decile 10 full primary school. This reflects the community’s high educational expectations.
Maungaraki School focuses on HEART values. These values promote well-being. The school delivers a skills-based curriculum. Students achieve great results in numeracy and mathematics. They also do well in all curriculum areas. Learning experiences are designed to be relevant. They provide opportunities to connect with peers and families. The school connects with the wider community and even globally.
The board is committed to providing a well-balanced curriculum. This nurtures the whole child. It celebrates successes. It provides a range of experiences in all curriculum areas. These include music, sports and cultural activities. Each year, students experience education outside the classroom. The school is committed to Enviro Educational opportunities too.
Maungaraki School provides students with high-quality technologies. These technologies are an integral part of their learning. All students from year 5 to 8 have access to their own devices. They learn in engaging ways. There is a strong emphasis on the digital curriculum. Our juniors also have opportunities to engage digitally through iPads and online learning platforms.
The school places increased emphasis on partnerships. These partnerships are between parents, students and teachers. The school consults regularly with its community. It values their feedback. Three-way conferences involve students. Goals are collaboratively determined. The school regularly shares successes through social media and assemblies.
Isn’t it remarkable how Maungaraki School has evolved. It grew from two separate schools to become a central part of the Maungaraki community? It is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a place where children learn, grow and thrive.