How techenhanced learning is empowering Kiwi kids
Mobile classrooms teach more than 200,000 tamariki annually across Aotearoa
Life Education Trust New Zealand has been a beacon of empowerment for Kiwi children and youth for over 35 years. Through innovative teaching programmes, this trust has touched the lives of tamariki and rangatahi across the country, helping them grow and thrive. Support by funding from Te Puna Tahua Lottery Grants Board, through funds raised by Lotto New Zealand players, Life Education Trust’s initiatives - including the renowned ‘Healthy Harold’ programme - have been instrumental in shaping the educational landscape in Aotearoa.
With mobile classrooms traversing the nation, Life Education Trust reaches over 200,000 tamariki every year, bringing quality education to various communities. The unique approach of using specialist educators and Harold the giraffe mascot creates a safe and engaging learning environment, especially in regional and rural areas with limited access to external educational resources.
The trust’s mission stems from the belief that every child deserves access to high-quality life education. By going beyond conventional teaching methods, Life Education Trust imparts essential life skills to children through interactive lessons on body awareness, friendships, online safety, and nutrition, fostering holistic development.
The trust extends its support to teachers in these communities by offering professional development workshops on topics like anxiety, neurodiversity, and digital wellbeing. This initiative helps educators better understand and cater to the diverse needs of their students, creating a more inclusive learning environment.
The impact of Life Education Trust’s ‘Healthy Harold’ programme was evaluated by the New Zealand Council of Educational Research in 2021, revealing overwhelmingly positive outcomes for students. This validation underscores the effectiveness and importance of the trust’s educational initiatives in nurturing young minds.
In its continuous quest for innovation, Life Education Trust is set to launch Harold’s Studio this year. This new endeavour will leverage technology to deliver Healthy Harold lessons through online platforms, showcasing the trust’s commitment to evolving and enhancing its educational offerings to meet the changing needs of tamariki.
Life Education Trust’s journey is a testament to the power of community support. Through Lotto New Zealand’s Local Grants, this trust has been able to expand its reach, touching the lives of thousands of children and youth across Aotearoa. Every contribution made by playing Lotto New Zealand games directly supports initiatives like the
Life Education Trust, making a positive impact on communities nationwide.
Life Education Trust stands as a shining example of how collaborative efforts can drive positive change and empower the next generation. Through its dedication to providing comprehensive life education and unwavering support to educators, this trust continues to be a catalyst for growth and development in the hearts and minds of Kiwi children.
One hundred percent of Lotto New Zealand’s profits go back to support thousands of great causes all over Aotearoa. So, every time you play any Lotto NZ game, it’s a win for our communities, and it’s a win for our tamariki.