Kahui Ako is a collective of schools and early childhood centres in New Zealand, working together to nurture children’s education and development.
The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are crucial, shaping the foundation for their future. Ensuring smooth transitions between early childhood centres and schools is vital to building a child’s confidence, sense of belonging, and success. In Whanganui, Peter Kaua, alongside local iwi, played a pivotal role in establishing Kahui Ako.
The involvement of iwi was instrumental in shaping the vision and values of the collective, ensuring that the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of the whenua (land) and its people were deeply embedded in its foundation. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to putting the child at the centre, guided by the wisdom of local Māori traditions and community.
Kahui Ako fosters culturally responsive practices, building meaningful relationships with children, their whānau, and the wider community. By embracing whakapapa (ancestry) and honouring the stories of the land, children are empowered with a strong sense of identity, pride, and purpose.
This collaborative approach brings schools, whānau, iwi, and communities together, creating a supportive environment where every voice matters and every child can thrive.
Through this united effort, Kahui Ako transforms traditional education into a system that uplifts not just the child, but their whānau, iwi, the environment, and the wider community, ensuring that each child feels seen, valued, and supported on their journey.