OUR PRINCIPAL
Kia ora whānau,
Waitakaruru School was founded in 1902 when the Hauraki Plains were only beginning to be settled by the European people. Over the past 115 years the school has developed and grown. Today the school buildings offer large and modern teaching spaces with high ceilings and wide windows which create a sense of space and an airy and bright atmosphere. The classrooms open out to a vast covered deck.
Visitors to our school will recognize the great opportunities presented in our spacious and attractive grounds. Features include cricket nets, netball, basketball and tennis courts, an expansive main field, swimming pool and two playgrounds. We host a Ministry of Education accredited playgroup on Thursdays. This provides a setting for nearby pre-schoolers and parents to learn and play in a structured setting as well as support effective transitioning into school life. The Mangatarata Room (hall) is used throughout the year for our assemblies, performing arts, aerobics and also by the community for meetings and social functions. A covered outdoor quad area also provides space for students to exercise and play throughout the winter months.
The school enjoys the extensive support of parents and the surrounding community.
Many families have a long association with the school and continue to contribute socially, educationally and financially to the overall health and vitality of Waitakaruru. Our PTA group is a committed group of parents that work hard raising funds and providing hospitality and fellowship throughout the year. They average annual amount varies from $15,000 to $20,000 per year. Parents show a keen interest in the progress of their children with positive turnouts for parent information evenings, formal parent interviews and sharing assemblies.
Although the school curriculum is thoroughly modern, traditional rural values are nurtured at Waitakaruru School. Students display a very real respect for others and are encouraged to set and achieve high standards in all areas. The school maintains many elements of a traditional New Zealand rural primary school- calf club, cross country, athletics, swimming sports, book day, senior camp, marae noho, visiting performers, and a graduation dinner. This shows a vibrant school at the heart of an active and supportive community.
So, welcome to Waitakaruru School. Please pop in and see me so I can show you around our wonderful school.
Ngā mihi nui,
Tina Taylor
Principal