Meet the staff

Tēnā koutou e te whānau,

Nau mai, haere mai ki Te Kura Takiwa o Taipā – a place where manaakitanga, painga, and mahitahi thrive. As the proud Principal of this unique learning community, I am privileged to welcome you to our website, offering a glimpse into the heart of Taipā Area School.

At the core of our school are the values that guide us – manaakitanga, the spirit of hospitality and respect; painga, the positive sharing with our community; and mahitahi, the power of teamwork and unity. These values are woven into the kete of our daily relations, shaping the character of our school and fostering a positive learning environment.

Taipā Area School is not just any school. It is a close-knit community, a whānau, that is on a journey of embracing the rich history of our whakapapa and iwi Ngati Kahu. Our students, who range in age from 5 to 18, are on a collective journey of growth and discovery, guided by the wisdom of our tupuna.

Taipā Area School is committed to providing an unwavering education experience. Our students engage in learning that transcends traditional boundaries, creating a continuum from early childhood to young adulthood. The unique structure of an area school fosters relationships that span age groups, creating a sense of belonging and interconnectedness that is fundamental to our identity. We strive to ensure that our students feel a strong sense of safety and belonging, which is essential to their growth and development.

Our strategic plan for 2023-25 embodies the vision of ‘Kia ngatahi te hoe, kia whakatere te waka ki uta’ which means ‘Navigate together for success’. This vision highlights our commitment to unity, collaboration, and shared goals. Our four visionary principles – safety, belonging, achievement, and engagement in learning – act as the compass that guides our journey, ensuring each student’s education is meaningful, individualised, and purposeful.

I invite you to explore our website, discover the whānau feel that is Taipā Area School, and join us in nurturing the potential of every learner. Together, let us continue to paddle forward, guided by our values, empowered by our whakapapa, and united in our commitment to excellence.