School set to open next term

view into lessons would include using narratives about Ma¯ ori history in the region, for example an exercise could use discussion about how a pupil’s mountain got its name, Nepia said.

‘‘We talk about the holistic child, meaning physically, spiritually and mentally. From a Ma¯ ori point of view those things are really important. When those things are acknowledged, a child can be strong.’’

While pre-fabricated classrooms with break-out rooms had been delivered to the marae this year, learning would also take place in the whare (meeting house), the gymnasium and even the marae vegetable garden.

‘‘The whole marae is their learning environment. We’ll weave it all together in the curriculum,’’ Nepia said.

‘‘There’s a sense of returning to village life, rather than children learning in isolation . . . they’ll be learning alongside people of all ages, mum and dad, our kauma¯ tua [elders].’’

Pupils enrolled were from Ma¯ ori and Pa¯ keha¯ families, and even families from other countries who valued bilingual learning. There was already a waiting list, Nepia said.

‘‘We’re really excited about it. We think it’s going to grow.’’

Renwick School principal Simon Heath said he was excited to offer another choice for students in Marlborough.

‘‘The Renwick School board of trustees are delighted to be able to work in close partnership with Omaka Marae on this project.’’

Hills would be part of the Renwick School staff, and supported by her peers at the main school campus, Heath said.