Little Pipiriki thinks big

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 38, 12 March 1985, Page 6

Little Pipiriki thinks big

Just because Pipiriki is a rural school with only ten names on the roll, it is no reason for the pupils to be handicapped for life in the 21st century, says sole-charge teacher, Josephine Mikaere. Despite its small size, the school has a computer, an over-head projector and a well-stocked library for the pupils. The children range in age from twelve downwards — the two youngest being Josephine's own. "We're like one big family down here," she says. "Most of the kids are related, so they are family anyway." She has few problems with discipline as she operates a Tuakana-Teina

system whereby the Tuakana, or older brother, has a T eina, or baby, to look after. She uses this system especially when using the computer. "The older kids show the little ones how to use the computer and at the same time they are learning to develop responsibility and leadership." Josephine is also a supporter and promoter of bi-lingualism. She uses Maori as much as possible in the classroom. "I try to use it in natural situations rather than teaching it cold." The children also use flash cards, games in Maori, books and the Racau Method, a system specifically designed for the teaching of Maori in schools. J.osephine receives the support of the community for her bi-lingual teaching. "The kids are also proud of the fact that they can understand what their elders say in Maori." The school was in danger of closing several years ago as there was no full-time teacher. Josephine was supposed to relieve for just a few months, but ended up moving to Pipiriki with her husband to live. Although the school roll is slightly down on last year, Josephine believes it looks steady for the future. "There are lots of little ones that will

soon be coming to the school and there are more families moving here as a result of the new housing development." School trips from Pipiriki go to cities and towns as the youngsters are used to country life. The children also visit tourist centres "so they can see how to promote Pipiriki as a tourist area." •> Recently the pupils visited Rotorua and also Napier and Hastings, where they stayed on a marae for a week. Pipiriki School also receives visits from other schools. 'St. Anne's' from Wanganui East visited recently and were given a traditional Maori welcome. The pupils were taken for a swim in the river and the school's classroom was turned into a meeting house, with mattresses for the guests to sleep on.