Te Kaupapa Whakaora
Te Kaupapa Whakaora is an alternative education programme for rangatahi aged 13 to 16 who have been excluded from mainstream education. At Te Kaupapa Whakaora, we create a space where young people are welcomed to "come as they are" and learn in ways that suit their unique needs, with a focus on holistic development.
In order for rangatahi to enrol at an Alternative Education School, they must already be enrolled in their in-zone school. An AE Liaison at their in-zone school will then refer them to Christchurch AE, where a meeting will be set up to determine the best AE fit for your rangatahi.
For more details, see: Christchurch Alternative Education.
With the kaupapa of "respect and participation" at the core, we empower and challenge our rangatahi to achieve educational goals in literacy, numeracy, and key competencies. We also provide opportunities to learn in areas like outdoor and physical education, ensuring they are ready to transition either back into mainstream education or onward to further learning or employment.
Numeracy & Literacy: At Te Kaupapa Whakaora, we place a strong emphasis on improving the literacy and numeracy skills of our rangatahi, helping to bridge the gaps in their previous learning. We work towards NZQA achievement standards, ensuring that each young person is supported in their journey towards success.
Alternative Education: Learning at Te Kaupapa Whakaora goes beyond the classroom. Our young people are given the chance to engage in a wide range of activities that support their personal and academic growth.Some of the activities include:
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Outdoor education (surfing, mountain biking, tramping, rock climbing, river activities)
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Physical education (touch, soccer, dodgeball, basketball, running, fitness, athletics)
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Creative expression (journaling, poetry, rap, diary entries)
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REAL conversations in small groups
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Delivered unit standards from externals covering areas such as Drugs and Alcohol, Anger Management, Routine Tasks
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Termly camps and Noho Marae stays and retreats.
Transition for Rangatahi: Our kaimahi work closely with each rangatahi, their whānau, and an Alternative Education transition specialist to develop a transition plan tailored to their needs. This plan is created before the young person turns 16 and helps guide them back into mainstream education, into higher education, or into employment.
Whānau Engagement: Whānau are a crucial part of a young person’s journey at Te Kaupapa Whakaora. We invite whānau to participate in IDP (Individual Development Plan) meetings at the end of each term, and we encourage attendance at our Whānau Evenings, where progress and achievements are celebrated. Kai, music (often performed by the rangatahi), and good company make these evenings special as we acknowledge the growth and successes of our young people.