Kaiapoi school moves away from open-plan classrooms
By local democracy reporter David Hill:
Kaiapoi’s oldest school is returning to traditional single-cell classrooms as it looks to the future.
Kaiapoi Borough School opened two new classrooms on Monday (November 6), on the eve of its 150 year anniversary celebrations on November 24.
Principal Hayden van Lent said two-thirds of the school had been rebuilt since the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, giving the school a new look.
The new classrooms provided more space for roll growth, with the design going back to the more traditional single cell classrooms.
"We know it works well and it works for our tamariki and our community," van Lent said.
"They are exciting spaces and we still have the ability to be flexible."
Doors between the two classrooms could be opened up to use as one big space when needed and they were equipped with break-out rooms, wet spaces and electric windows.
The classrooms were a kitset design built by Fitzgerald Construction in Nelson.
Representatives from Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tūāhuriri offered a blessing on Monday, and were joined by Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey and representatives from the Ministry of Education and Fitzgerald Construction.
Junior students also came to view their new classrooms, before moving in on Wednesday.
The school will be hosting an open day on Friday, November 24, to mark its 150th anniversary.
A mihi whakatau (formal welcome) will be held at 12pm, with lunch provided.
Lunch will be followed by school tours, the burying of a time capsule, a tree planting and the cutting of the cake in the hall.
■ Public interest journalism funded through New Zealand on Air.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
-
60% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
14.3% ... It is complicated
Poll: Do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? ☔⚠️
As reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.
With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? Or are you more of a “grab the torches and hope for the best” household?
-
42.1% Yes - we like to be prepared
-
42.1% Nah
-
15.8% This is on my to-do list!
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Loading…
