Our Kura

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Our History

Kawakawa Primary School was established in 1873, and many of our whānau have attended our school across multiple generations. Our unique history continues to shape the heritage, identity and sense of belonging that we are so proud of today.

Before the establishment of Bay of Islands College, Kawakawa Primary operated as the local District High School. Our historic catchment stretches from Pakaru Road to Moerewa and from Ōpua to Kāretu, with strong historical connections to the Whangae area.

Our school emblem is inspired by the Kawakawa leaf. Within the leaf are four kōwhaiwhai patterns that come together at the centre, representing the four rivers that flow into the Kawakawa River: the Waiomio, Tirohanga, Taumarere and Ngāpipito.

These four areas continue to be an important part of our school identity, and are represented through the names of our four school houses.

 

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About Kawakawa Primary School 

Kawakawa Primary School is a state-owned full primary school, classified U4, catering for students from Year 0 to Year 8. With 92% of our students identifying as Māori, we are proud to provide both mainstream and bilingual learning pathways that reflect and celebrate the language, culture and identity of our students and whānau.

We are extremely proud of our dedicated teaching and support staff, who are committed to providing quality teaching, learning and operational practices. Our staff play an integral role in supporting the wellbeing, achievement and long-term success of our students and the wider school.

The school is staffed by a Principal, Deputy Principal and 11 teaching staff, supported by a committed administration and support team.

Our Year 7 and 8 students participate in a Technology Programme at Hukerenui School during Terms 1 and 2. Students attend once a week and take part in a range of practical learning experiences, including Food Technology and soft and hard materials.

Kawakawa Primary School has strong working relationships with a range of external agencies and community organisations. These include the Public Health Nurse, Sport Northland, NZSTA, New Zealand Police, local iwi and Hauora Whānui (Dental), among others. These partnerships provide valuable support and opportunities for our students, whānau and staff.

We operate an open-door policy and value strong relationships between home and school. While parents and caregivers receive two written reports each year, we encourage whānau to be actively involved in all aspects of their child's education and to maintain open communication with the school and their child's teachers.

Our school is an active part of the wider Kawakawa community, participating in a range of community events and activities throughout the year. We greatly value the ongoing support and relationships we have with local businesses, organisations, iwi and our wider community, which contribute positively to the experiences and opportunities we can provide for our students.