The translation of Te Kōhanga Reo is The Language Nest and is an alternative education school for New Zealand Māori and other interested peoples. Traditionally the focus in Aotearoa (NZ) is Early Childhood Education, whilst here in Australia we have diversified our programs suitable for the lifestyle and impacts of Maori living in Te Pāpaka ā Maui (Australia). Te Kōhanga Reo-Poihākena is a branch
of Indigenous Wise Incorporation which is an organisation in inter-cultural, inter-faith, and inter-organisational activities, and that has a heart for social justice. Programs under IWI suit all ages. The Te Kōhanga Reo curriculum and pedagogy provides a learning space for the akonga (student) to experience and to be immersed in the holistic learning of being Māori. This learning space has the powerful potential to build identity, well being and belonging. It also aids the prevention of Māori disengaging; or even rejecting the existing educational systems offered today. Being connected to the educational system through Te Kōhanga Reo creates a stronger sense of belonging between the akonga to their culture, language and arts but also to their extended Māori community. The programs we offer are;
Early Childhood Education Program
Playgroup Education Program