This term more than 700 tamariki at Rotorua Intermediate will have access to Stars Teina, a programme designed to help students make a successful transition into intermediate and secondary school.
It is the follow-on to Kiwi Can, a Graeme Dingle Foundation programme delivered in primary schools throughout Aotearoa.
Rotorua Intermediate principal Garry de Thierry is passionate about the potential impact for the school and the community.
“The move from primary to intermediate then onto high school is significant for our rangatahi,” he says.
“You’re changing environments, social groups, teachers combine that with physical and emotional development it’s a time that can have a huge impact on a young person.
“We’re excited to offer a programme that builds community and helps facilitate our 700 tamariki through that change.” Stars Teina works to strengthen the sense of community within a school and brings younger and older students together with a buddy system. It builds student confidence and life-skills that can be transferred to their school and community.
Image: Dana (left), of Claymark, Graeme Dingle Foundation’s Nicola Smallwood, Claymark’s Bruce Barclay and Cori Maroroa with Rotorua Intermediate principal Garry de Thierry.