No Image

Principal

“We were refugees” Displaced by the cyclone

While many schools and centres were damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle, a few were forced into long-term closure with staff and children having to re-establish elsewhere. Ako talked to kaiako from three different institutions that found new premises, or were taken in by a neighbouring school or centre.

Read More

The power of collective action

During the recent weather events schools have emerged as first responders to crisis in many close-knit communities. Where local authorities failed, groups of educators joined together as hubs of help. Ako spoke with one group of schools in Tāmaki Makaurau about their joint efforts in the face of crisis.

Read More

Summer 202322 Feb 2023

Learning for life

Professional learning and development (PLD) is a critical part of practice for all educators. But how do they ensure their ongoing learning has the best impact for ākonga? These personal stories showcase some outstanding PLD experiences that benefit students, educators and whole communities.

Read More

Spring 202214 Sep 2022

Pandemic innovations

COVID-19 forced schools and early childhood centres to rethink the way they delivered learning. Ako talks to educators who have found the silver linings and are looking to the future.

Read More

15 Oct 2020

Spilling the beans

Ally Kemplen is a teacher aide at Newton Central School in Auckland. She shares her memories of her favourite year at school, before talking with the current principal.

Read More

Covid-19 202020 May 2020

In the deep end: new principals leading through a pandemic

The Covid-19 crisis has tested everyone involved in our education system. But for scores of new principals, the challenge has been particularly fraught.

AKO talks with three beginning principals in the Auckland region about how they have managed through a crisis, while still coming to terms with their new role.

Read More

Rongomai School
Winter 201925 Jul 2019

People power

School principals from around the country explain how strong communities of staff bring crucial benefits for children and whānau, from South Auckland to Southland.

Read More

Winter 201827 Jul 2018

Understanding, recognising and knowing

Across the country, teachers report that there are more children with high learning needs and the resources and funding to help these children are over-stretched. Education professionals talk here about how they deliver the curriculum to children with learning needs.

Read More