A North Auckland mainstream school is backing Māori language being a compulsory subject in schools. Kingsway School has done more than just encourage their own students to learn the language and culture, they've also been spreading the language offshore.
Students of Joshua School in Tanzania, Africa, chanting ‘E Te Ariki’ were taught by students of Kingsway School in Auckland.
The Executive Principal of Kingsway School, Graeme Budler says, “When we go overseas they don't ask, hey, sing a little ditti in European. They always for everything Māori, so let's embrace it, let's enjoy it.”
An ERO report two years ago commended Kingsway School for their academic progress, but saw a lack of understanding of the bicultural nature of NZ.
“Students that have come back have realised that they're not without culture, that even though they're Pākehā, they can embrace the fact that they can embrace Māori culture, and Māori culture as New Zealand culture, and that it's not just limited to Māori, but they can actually own it as well,” says Graeme Budler.
Tau Te Arohanui Ākoranga has worked in partnership with Kingsway School since 2011, and moved on site last year. They've been instrumental in helping their mainstream peers.
“The students have engaged in learning waiata, haka and just enjoying the learning, and our tamariki too. Really enjoy teaching, knowing that they have something to contribute to this big school,” says Jan Porter, Principal of Te Tau Arohanui Ākoranga.
Both Graeme Budler and Jan Porter support Māori language becoming a compulsory subject in schools.
“It's not about whether you are Pākeha or not, it's about loving the language, because you're New Zelander,” says Mr Budler.
Ms Porter says, “Te reo Māori isn't just a language that we learn and put it in a box. It's about a people, it's actually about two people now, coming back to this relationship of speaking to one another in a way that's respectful.”
Kingsway is looking to promote Māori language for all of next year.