Kia Kotahi Tātou, Tū Tonu Mai!

We all Stand Tall! 

Welcome to our vibrant place of learning, where we place children and their learning front and centre.

We place high value on developing strong foundations in Literacy and Mathematics and our teaching team pride themselves on striving to grow their own teaching capability to enhance learning outcomes for our tamariki. We collectively live our school value of 'Open to Learning / Kia Mataara' for the benefits of our learners everyday.

Our committed staff work in partnership with students, whānau and one another to create learning opportunities that engage, excite and encourage our learners to lengthen their stride and reach the potential they deserve. Our school is a great place to be, supported by our strong focus on values, relationships, and creating a family-like context. Tuakana teina relationships are at the heart of living our vision in providing an environment for tamariki to thrive. Tuakana teina is a concept from te ao Māori and refers to the relationship between an older (tuakana) person and a younger (teina) person. Tuakana teina relationships are visible in many different forms throughout our kura. 

At Tākaka Primary School, we use the Maths No Problem approach to teaching mathematics. This method is based on research and best practices from Singapore Math, which is known for developing deep mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills in students.

What is Maths No Problem?

Maths No Problem is a structured, step-by-step approach to teaching mathematics. It focuses on developing strong foundational skills, building confidence, and encouraging students to think mathematically. The approach ensures that children fully understand concepts before moving on to new learning.

Key Elements of Maths No Problem:

1. Concrete – Pictorial – Abstract (CPA) Approach

   • Students begin by using physical objects (concrete) to explore concepts.

   • They then move to visual representations (pictorial), such as diagrams and drawings.

   • Finally, they progress to working with numbers and symbols (abstract).

   • This progression helps deepen understanding and supports all learners.

2. Problem-Solving at the Heart

   • Students develop the ability to think critically and apply strategies to solve problems.

   • Real-life scenarios are used to make learning relevant and meaningful.

3. Mastery Learning

   • Concepts are explored in depth before moving on, ensuring strong understanding.

   • Students who grasp concepts quickly are challenged with deeper reasoning tasks, while those who need more time receive support to master the material.

4. Mathematical Talk & Collaboration

   • Students are encouraged to explain their thinking, discuss strategies, and learn from each other.

   • This builds confidence and helps develop reasoning skills.

5. Journaling & Reflection

   • Students record their learning and thinking, allowing them to reflect on their understanding.

   • Writing about math deepens comprehension and helps teachers assess student progress.

Why is Maths No Problem Important?

• It develops a deep and lasting understanding of mathematical concepts.

• It builds confidence by ensuring all students can succeed at their level.

• It encourages students to become independent thinkers and problem solvers.

• It supports a growth mindset by teaching students to approach challenges with persistence.

• It aligns with global best practices, ensuring students are well-prepared for future learning.

Over the last year we have been developing our own local curriculum, a curriculum full of rich learning linked to our area Golden Bay, Mohua. We have had the privilege of working alongside local artist and Manawhenua Kaumatua Robin Slow, who has created a visual artwork that encapsulates who we are at TPS and our connection to our local area. We have been exploring and unpacking our cultural map during staff hui and our tamariki have been unpacking it through their inquiry learning. 

All future learning will link back to our cultural narrative, developing TPS Learners!

Kowhaiwahi patterns, as well as being decorative, tell many stories. The kowhaiwhai pattern designed for TPS, came from many conversations with Robin Slow sharing who we were, our values and aspirations for our tamariki as he developed our Cultural Narrative above. The TPS kowhaiwhai begins with the koru, which signifies growth, strength and peace. The Kahikatea tree from the original logo stands tall reflecting the learner at the centre, enveloped in awhi / support of whānau, teachers, peers and the wider community. The white single connector running through the centre of the design represents our value of whanaungatanga and the importance of connection; past, present and future. The colours represent Ki uta ki tai - mountains to the sea and everything in between. The gold in-between connecting to our beautiful rohe / area of Golden Bay, Mohua.

Tākaka Primary School has 8 classrooms and each of these classes is named after rākau (trees) found in the ngahere (forest). These are: Pikopiko, Kōwhai, Rimu,Rāta, Nikau, Tōtara, Kauri and Kahiaktea.