WELCOME FROM OUR TUMUAKI
Nau mai, haere mai ki te Kura Takawaenga o Ōtātara
Welcome to Taradale Intermediate School!

It’s a privilege to be Tumuaki here at Taradale Intermediate – a school close to my heart, with my own tamariki having attended and strong connections to our local primary schools.

Intermediate years are a unique and important time in your child’s development – full of change, growth, and discovery. Our kura is designed especially for this stage, supporting ākonga as they grow socially, emotionally, and academically.

At Taradale Intermediate, we’re passionate about great teaching and learning. Our dedicated kaiako are committed to learner wellbeing, agency, and a growth mindset, all through a culturally responsive lens. We work hard to build strong, respectful relationships with ākonga and whānau – creating a safe and inspiring place to learn.

Our curriculum focuses on core literacies while offering a wide range of hands-on, exciting learning opportunities. We support learners to be confident, curious, and capable – ready to take risks, know themselves as learners, and embrace new challenges.

We also encourage ākonga to get involved in our rich range of extra-curricular activities, helping build confidence and connection beyond the classroom.

Joining our kura means being part of a community where learning is purposeful, engaging, and full of possibility.

“Ko te pae tawhiti whāia kia tata, ko te pae tata whakamaua kia tīna.”
Seek out distant horizons, while cherishing those achievements at hand.

Celebrating the Whole Learner at TIS

We believe in recognising and growing the full potential of every ākonga. Our awards programme celebrates excellence across four key areas:

Academic Achievement – for those who strive for and reach high standards in their learning

Citizenship & Service – for showing kindness, leadership, and a heart for helping others

Cultural Excellence – for shining through creativity, performance, and pride in identity

Sporting Excellence – for effort, teamwork, and achievement on the field and court

These awards encourage our ākonga to step out, try new things, and discover their strengths across all areas of school life.

Our kaiako are specialists in this unique age group – supporting, guiding, and championing each learner to take ownership of their learning journey and grow into confident, capable young people.

Capability

We see capability as more than just skills – it’s the confidence, knowledge, and experience our ākonga build to take on challenges and succeed.

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the sports field, on stage, or in service to others, we help learners grow their capability every day. It’s about knowing how to learn, working through challenges, and becoming more confident in who they are and what they can do.

We believe that building capability sets our ākonga up not just for success at school, but for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

Character

Character is what truly shapes who we are – it’s the values, beliefs, and habits that guide how we think, act, and relate to others.

Our ākonga are encouraged to grow their character every day by showing kindness, resilience, honesty, respect, and responsibility – not just when someone’s watching, but because it’s the right thing to do.

We’re proud to support our learners as they become not just great learners, but great people – ready to contribute positively to their whānau, community, and the world beyond our school gates.

Curiosity

We see curiosity as the spark that lights up learning.

Our ākonga are encouraged to ask questions, wonder why, explore how things work, and dive deeper into the world around them. Curiosity helps them grow as thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers – and keeps learning exciting and meaningful.

By nurturing curiosity in the classroom and beyond, we empower our learners to explore new ideas, take risks, and discover their own passions and pathways.

Toi Hangarau and Raranga are run out of our Innovation Centre — a dynamic space where curiosity meets creativity and ākonga are empowered to lead their own learning. Designed to foster future-focused skills, this is where learners solve real-world problems, collaborate on meaningful projects, and bring bold ideas to life.

Driven by Design Thinking and enterprise principles, ākonga engage in authentic challenges that build resilience, financial literacy, and a deep understanding of themselves as learners. With flexible spaces, supportive teachers, and opportunities to present to real audiences, the Innovation Centre is a launchpad for confident, capable, and compassionate future leaders.

Here, ākonga don’t just learn—they innovate, create, and make a difference.

Learning doesn’t just happen inside four walls – we take education outdoors to make it richer, deeper, and more connected to the real world.

Our Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programme gives ākonga the chance to grow through hands-on experiences that build knowledge, skills, and values. These adventures help our learners become confident, safe, and respectful participants in the outdoors – and passionate kaitiaki of the environment.

Here’s a taste of what EOTC looks like at TIS:

Aquatics Activities
Ākonga dive into water safety skills and team-building activities that help build confidence and cooperation in a fun, active setting.

Wilderness Camp Adventures
Held every year, our camps are designed to stretch and support ākonga as they try new things, face challenges, and grow stronger together – all within a
safe and supportive environment.

Marae Experience
All ākonga will take part in a marae visit with their whānaukura group, deepening their understanding of tikanga, te reo Māori, and the importance of
manaakitanga and whakapapa.

Class Trips & Local Learning
From museum visits to local explorations, class trips bring our inquiry learning to life. These place-based experiences are a key part of our local
curriculum and help ākonga connect meaningfully with their community and environment.

These memorable experiences help our learners discover new passions, connect with their peers, and build confidence outside the classroom.

Supporting Every Learner

We understand that every ākonga learns in their own way – and some may need a little extra support along the journey. We’re committed to working closely with whānau, previous schools, and specialist support teams to ensure each child feels seen, understood, and empowered to thrive.

By building strong relationships between our kaiako, kaiāwhina, pastoral care team, Resource Teachers of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB), and external agencies, we can provide thoughtful, tailored support to meet individual needs. Early identification and open, ongoing communication with whānau is at the heart of how we care for our learners.

Here’s how we support ākonga with diverse learning needs:

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Our ESOL programme helps ākonga grow in confidence with both spoken and written English. It’s personalised to meet each learner’s needs and
supports their progress in class and social settings.

Kaiāwhina – In-Class Support
Our kaiāwhina work alongside kaiako to support ākonga directly in the classroom. We use a flexible, needs-based approach that adapts to different
learning styles, strengths, and environments.

Pastoral Care TeamWe have a caring and experienced team dedicated to the wellbeing of our learners. This includes:

SENCO (Special Education Needs Coordinator)
Dedicated Pastoral Care Support
Resource Teachers of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB)
Public Health Nurse Access
Learning Support Services via the Ministry of Education

Our goal is simple – to ensure every child feels supported, safe, and capable of success. Together, with whānau and community, we can nurture the whole learner.

He kura manaaki, he kura haumaru – A school that cares, a school that’s safe

Our behaviour and relationship approach is grounded in PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) and Restorative Practice, underpinned by our core value of Manaakitanga – showing care, respect and kindness to others.

What is PB4L?

PB4L is a school-wide framework that supports positive behaviour and fosters a respectful, inclusive school culture. It helps us create clear expectations, teach positive behaviours, and respond to challenges in ways that uphold the dignity and mana of every individual.

This framework equips our staff with the tools and strategies to:

✔ Teach expected behaviours clearly and consistently

✔ Recognise and celebrate positive behaviour

✔ Address behaviour in a way that restores relationships, not just applies consequences

✔ Support ākonga to learn from mistakes and grow

Restorative Practice – Restoring and Strengthening Relationships

Restorative Practice is the heart of how we respond when relationships break down. It’s about treating people with dignity, giving everyone a voice, and focusing on healing rather than blame.

Our process includes four key steps:

Exploring what happened – ensuring all voices are heard
Understanding the harm – recognising the impact on others
Repairing the relationship – restoring trust and connection
Planning for change – identifying what needs to happen next to move forward positively

Why This Matters

By combining PB4L and Restorative Practice, we ensure that our kura is a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. This approach supports our ākonga not only in managing behaviour but in developing the social and emotional skills they’ll carry for life.

We work in partnership with whānau to support every learner to thrive – behaviourally, socially, and emotionally.

	EVEN YEAR
CONCEPT	CULTURE/IDENTITY/DIVERSITY
WHAKATAUKĪ	Ko te pae tawhiti, whāia kia tata, ko te pae tata, whakamaua kia tīna.
OUTCOMES	Recite pepeha to an audience. Know the school pepeha and its tikanga. Know their whānaukura pepeha
MANA MODEL	Mana Whānau and Mana Motuhake Tu Meke Tuatara – Malcolm Clarke
CONCEPT	CHANGE/CAUSE/EFFECT
WHAKATAUKĪ	Whatungarongaro te tangata, toitū te whenua.
OUTCOMES	Knows, understands and has retold (in any medium) the story of Ahuriri. (TBC)
MANA MODEL	Mana Tū Mophead – Selina Tusitala Marsh
CONCEPT	PAST/PRESENT/FUTURE
WHAKATAUKĪ	Kaua e mate wheke mate ururoa.
OUTCOMES	Can talk about Taraia, Turauwha, Tareha te Moananui, and Hikawera.
MANA MODEL	Mana Tangatarua Aroha’s Way – Craig Phillips
CONCEPT	RESPONSIBILITY/COMMUNITY/CONNECTION
WHAKATAUKĪ	Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini
OUTCOMES	Incorporate and name some Māori design and visual arts into their learning. Must include: poutama, pātiki and mangōpare,
MANA MODEL	Mana Ūkaipō Poetry Anthology
YEARLY EXPERIENCES	Traditional Māori games Marae experience Perform Tika Tonu with words and actions. Identify some native plants and their medicinal uses

	ODD YEAR
CONCEPT	WHANAUNGATANGA KOTAHITANGA
WHAKATAUKĪ	Ko te pae tawhiti, whāia kia tata, ko te pae tata, whakamaua kia tīna.
OUTCOMES	Recite pepeha to an audience. Know the school pepeha and its tikanga. Know their whānaukura pepeha
MANA MODEL	Mana Whānau and Mana Motuhake In The Beginning – Peter Gossage
CONCEPT	INNOVATION/ENTERPRISE
WHAKATAUKĪ	Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūoho koe me he maunga teitei.
OUTCOMES	Knows, understands, and has retold (in any medium) the story of Pania of the Reef.
MANA MODEL	Mana Ūkaipō Pania of the Reef – Ngāti Pārau
CONCEPT	PERSPECTIVE/COMMUNICATION
WHAKATAUKĪ	Ka pāwai, ka hiki, ki te haere. A blossoming takes place, a journey is set out on.
OUTCOMES
MANA MODEL	Mana Tangatarua Backpack Letters - Mitey
CONCEPT	DISCOVERY/CREATIVITY
WHAKATAUKĪ	Kāore te kumara e kōrero mō tōna ake reka.
OUTCOMES	Knows, understands and has retold (in any medium), the story of how the Tutaekuri river was named.
MANA MODEL	Mana Tū and Mana Motuhake The Legend of Rongokako
YEARLY EXPERIENCES	Hangi Perform Tutira mai ngā iwi with actions

Get Involved, Get Inspired
So Many Opportunities at TIS!

At Taradale Intermediate, learning goes far beyond the classroom! We offer a huge range of exciting opportunities for ākonga to shine – whether it's in academics, sport, the arts, culture, or service. These opportunities change and grow each year, keeping things fresh, fun, and full of challenge!

We encourage every learner to jump in, give things a go, and discover what they love. This is your time to try something new, grow your confidence, and be part of something awesome. Whether you’re solving tricky maths problems, performing on stage, leading a team, or learning a new skill – there’s something here for everyone.

Kapa Haka
A Living Expression of Culture

Our Kapa Haka rōpū is a vibrant part of kura life. Performing at local festivals alongside our contributing schools, ākonga deepen their knowledge of waiata, haka, and tikanga Māori. Weekly practices foster discipline, pride, and a strong sense of identity.

They also explore traditional Māori weaponry and performance arts – including mau rākau, patu, poi, and tī tī tōrea – through a modern lens, connecting past and present in a way that’s both meaningful and engaging.

Here’s just a taste of what might be on offer during your two years at TIS:

Super Six Inter-school Sports Competitions
Otago Maths Problem Solving Challenge
Smokefree Rockquest & Bandquest
Digi Awards – Digital Creativity
Kids’ Lit Quiz – Book Lovers Unite!
Performance Groups & School Productions
Radio Kidnappers Debating
Toa Whakaihuwaka & AIMS Games
Annual Gisborne Sports Exchange
Barista Training – Yes, really!
Show Quest & Dance Festival
Orchestra, Ensembles & Itinerant Music Lessons
Kapa Haka – Be part of the pride!
Culinary Arts – Master the kitchen
Publicity Team – Tell our story
Robotics – Design, build, compete
Languages – Learn something new!
Palmerston North Exchange – The Arts on Tour!

Empowering Wellbeing
Through the Mana Model & Mitey

We believe that every ākonga thrives when their mana is recognised, uplifted, and nurtured. That’s why our approach to wellbeing is guided by the Mana Model – a framework grounded in five key areas of mana that support ākonga to grow into confident, connected, and resilient individuals.

In 2023, we proudly introduced Mitey – an Aotearoa-developed, evidence-based programme focused on mental wellbeing for Year 7 and 8 learners. Mitey is more than a programme – it’s woven into the fabric of our daily life, shaping how we care for ourselves and one another.

You’ll see Mitey in action through:

Karakia and waiata that ground our day
Mindfulness and breathing exercises
Feelings walls and emotional check-ins
How groups collaborate and support one another
Clear behaviour expectations based on respect and understanding

Our goal is simple: to help ākonga develop emotional literacy – the ability to name, understand, and express how they feel. We want our young people to feel safe and supported to talk about their wellbeing, and to look out for each other as they grow.

This is a journey we take together – with learners, whānau, and staff all playing a part in building a kura where mana is honoured, and wellbeing is a shared priority.

Footwear with Pride and Purpose

Our school shoes are all about looking sharp and feeling ready to learn. Ākonga wear black leather lace-up shoes, paired with white, grey, or red socks – keeping it classic and clean.

When the weather warms up, learners can switch to black Roman sandals – a comfortable and smart alternative that still fits our kura style.

It’s all about showing pride in our uniform while being ready to step into learning every day.

School Hours

Our school day runs from 8:40am to 2:50pm – packed with learning, connection, and opportunities to grow. Please make sure your tamaiti arrives on time, ready to start the day strong!

Staying Connected – Communication with Whānau

We value strong partnerships between whānau and kaiako. You’re encouraged to keep in regular contact with your child’s teacher – email is the best way to get in touch.

We’ve also got some key ways we stay connected throughout the year:

Term 1: Get Connected Days – a chance to build relationships early
Term 2: Learner-Led Conferences – ākonga share their progress and goals
Hero App – our main communication platform and where real-time reporting happens

You’ll also be invited to our Celebration Assemblies at the end of each term – a time to acknowledge badge achievements and celebrate our learners’ efforts and successes together.

Bring Your Own Device

We encourage all ākonga to bring a device for learning – a laptop or chromebook is ideal. This supports engagement, creativity, and digital fluency in the classroom.

We use Office 365 and Google Apps for Education, and all the information you need – including minimum specs – is on our website under the Learn With Us / Ako tab.

Let us know if you need support with this – we’re here to help!

Important Dates for 2026 – Mark Your Calendar!

Enrolments Open - Ready to start your journey with us? Enrolments will open Monday 4th August 2025.

Open Week - Come and see our kura in action! Book a guided tour through our website during Open Week to explore our classrooms, meet our kaiako, and feel the energy of our learning environment. These will take place from the 25th to the 28th of August 2025.

Out of Zone Enrolments Close - If you live out of zone, enrolments close on Friday 19th September 2025 at 4pm.
In Zone families – we encourage you to enrol by then too to help with planning!

How to Enrol

Getting started is easy! Our online enrolment form and enrolment process can be found here or use the QR code on the flyer.
We’re excited to welcome your whānau into our learning community!