Matahui School is thrilled to kick off the new academic year with the highest student numbers since 2020.

In response to the growing student body, Matahui School has transitioned to a four-classroom model.

This expansion reflects the school's commitment to delivering a high-quality education through small-class sizes that fosters individual learning and focuses on building the individual talents and self-esteem of each child.

Matahui School is an independent primary school in the Western Bay of Plent catering for children in years 1 - 8 and offering an education that helps children build the skills they need for life while achieving their best academically. 

"We are a member of the Independent Schools of New Zealand and a registered charity," says a school spokesperson.

"We are not your typical school. We are a school where children are encouraged to climb trees; a school that focuses on building the individual talents and self-esteem of our students in a warm, friendly, and non-judgemental environment.

"We provide fun and engaging learning and smaller class sizes for more one-on-one time with the teacher. Rather than trying to fit your child into a system – we have designed our curriculum and school systems around our students’ needs and interests."

Matahui School outdoor area. Photo: Supplied.

The school faced significant challenges in 2021, with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic threatening closure.

Despite the challenges presented by the global pandemic, the school has not only weathered the storm but has emerged stronger, introducing several new innovative programmes over the past few years.

Among the exciting additions is the introduction of the One-Day School, which features a Guardians of the Forest Programme and a Neurodiverse Programme.  

The One-Day Programme allows children who are not students at the school to experience the school’s unique curriculum.

The Guardians of the Forest is a once-a-week forest school where children spend the day engaged in nature, progressing practical skills, and developing environmental awareness.

The Neurodiverse Programme is specially designed for children with a learning need  such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, twice-exceptional, ADHD and gifted children; and includes components of structured literacy, Math, and hands-on project-inquiry.

Matahui School outdoor area. Photo: Supplied.

Principal Mary Woods is expressing optimism about the future.

"We are delighted to welcome our students back for the new school year," says Mary.

"The challenges of the past have only strengthened our resolve to provide a nurturing and enriching environment for every child.

"The increased enrolment and the success of our new programmes are a testament to the spirit of Matahui School."

The growing teaching staff are equally excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

"The combination of traditional and innovative teaching methods ensures that Matahui School continues to offer an education that helps children build the skills they need for life while achieving their best academically."