building the leaders of tomorrow – beyond the classroom
Matarau School offers our senior students a range of activities that not only encourage personal growth, but also build a sense of community among classmates, develop teamwork skills and foster a sense of responsibility.
Student Leaders
Student leadership is an integral part of our senior school and is evident throughout the year.
TUAKANA TEINA
Seniors can step up as leaders by working with younger students, whether it be through a coaching role, as a House captain, or as senior buddy roles in the classroom and playground. This allows them to set good examples, share what they know, and build a welcoming learning space. By mentoring, they help younger students tackle challenges, offer support and create a sense of community.
These interactions boost skills for everyone involved, like communication and empathy, and emphasise collaboration and shared responsibility.
kaitātaki
Our students lead in kapa haka and our pōwhiri, playing a key role in learning Māori culture. Through these activities, they enhance performing arts skills and foster cultural pride. This leadership builds teamwork, communication, and emotional intelligence, empowering them as confident speakers and cultural ambassadors.
SCHOOL COUNCIL
In the school council, students engage in discussions, work together with their peers, and make important decisions.
By organising events and initiating projects, they motivate their classmates and foster a sense of leadership and pride within the school.
ANZAC LEADERS
Each year, seniors organise the school ANZAC service, developing skills in organisation, public speaking, and teamwork. This experience instils responsibility and pride, making the service meaningful for the school community.
TECH EXPERTS
Our seniors take on tech roles by managing and operating equipment for school events. Whether it’s during assemblies, calf club days, school productions, performances, or special ceremonies, they’re the ones behind the scenes making everything run smoothly.
Senior School Camp – Hillary outdoors OPC
Our Year 7 and 8 students participate in an exciting week-long leadership camp at Hillary Outdoors in Tongariro. Here, they engage in a variety of outdoor adventures—bush, water, and mountain activities—that foster resilience, leadership, and teamwork. This unforgettable experience encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, promoting both personal and social growth.
Bush Adventures
One of the most thrilling aspects of Hillary Outdoors in Tongariro is the chance to explore the bush. Students can hike through forests filled with native trees and wildlife. This experience teaches them the importance of conservation and respecting nature. Guides lead these hikes, sharing knowledge about the ecosystem and how to navigate through the wilderness safely.
Mountain Challenges
The mountainous terrain of Tongariro offers various activities, from hiking to climbing. Students can participate in challenging hikes that lead to stunning viewpoints, where they can appreciate the beauty of the surrounding peaks. These mountain adventures not only test their physical abilities but also build teamwork and resilience. Learning to overcome obstacles in a safe and supportive environment is a key goal of the program.
Water Activities
In addition to bush and mountain pursuits, Hillary Outdoors also emphasises water activities. Students can engage in kayaking or river rafting, providing them with skills in water safety and teamwork. These experiences are both fun and educational, allowing students to understand the importance of water conservation and the role of waterways in our ecosystem.
Poor Knights Islands TRIP
As the Year 8 students at Matarau prepare to celebrate their time together in December, they will embark on an exciting adventure to the Poor Knights Islands aboard the boat “Perfect Day.” This trip will be filled with snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing, allowing students to bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories.
Sports
Students participate in a wide variety of sports through our EOTC.
These activities include fun and engaging options such as croquet, turbo touch, tennis, and the BEAST. Our school proudly takes part in all events organised by the Whangarei Primary Schools Sports Association (WPSSA), allowing students to compete against their peers, improve their skills, and foster teamwork.
Our sports teams also participate in interschool competitions against a range of schools across Northland.
Sports ACADEMY
The Sports Academy for Year 7 and 8 offers an exciting opportunity for young athletes to enhance their skills across various sporting codes. Students will engage in personalised training programs designed to improve their performance, while also focusing on conditioning to improve overall performance.
A key component of the academy is developing a strong sports mindset, which helps athletes cultivate mental toughness and focus. Participants will have the chance to learn from role models in the sports world, gaining insight and inspiration from their experiences.
Expert Coaching
Exposure to a range of sports with specialist coaches
Fitness and Conditioning
Implement warm-up routines, strength training, agility exercises.
Competitions
Participate in interschool competitions and AIMS Games
Team Building Activities
Interactive games and activities designed to promote teamwork and communication.
Entry into the Academy is by special application.
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