Tuakana-teina is a teaching and learning approach from Te Ao Māori – the Māori world. It refers to the relationship between an older person (tuakana) and a younger person (teina). The meaning is older sibling, younger sibling – where siblings learn from each other. It was launched as part of our Ako programme in 2021.
Mā te tuakana ka tōtika te teina, mā te teina ka tōtika te tuakana.
It is through the older sibling that the younger one learns the right way to do things, and it is through the younger sibling that the older one learns to be tolerant.
Reciprocal relationships occur where both tuakana and teina teach and learn from each other: teacher-student, student-teacher, teacher-teacher, student-student.
Our Vision for our ākonga is to inspire them to change the world. To do this, we need to give them responsibility and opportunities for leadership at all levels. Tuakana-teina is a way for ākonga to find their voice. Everyone needs support; everyone wants to belong and have a sense of place; tuakana-teina is a practical way to achieve this.
Senior students support their younger peers to manage day-to-day challenges such as homework or friendships. It improves understanding and communication between students and builds friendships, well-being and social wellness.