The major challenges that we face in New Zealand education is the continuing social, economic and political differences within our nation mainly between European and Maori people. These great differences are also reflected within the New Zealand education system. The academic achievement levels of Maori students is low, their rate of suspension from school is three times higher and they are over represented in special education programmes for behavioural issues. What is happening in New Zealand education for these results to arise? Why is it particularly Maori students?
In the New Zealand curriculum, one of the main principles is the curriculum acknowledging the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and the bicultural foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand. The aim of this is to allow all students to have the opportunity to acquire knowledge of te reo Maori. By incorporating this into our teaching practice, it gives Maori students something to relate to. It shows the students that their culture is valued. Incorporating the culture of Maori into our teaching also makes the learning relevant to Maori students and their life. It enhances their spiritual wellbeing and gives them a sense of belonging in the classroom. However, with these low results and differences within education, is this being implemented appropriately? Is this being implemented at all? Could more be done to welcome our Maori culture in the class room? Are there not enough options for our Maori students to excel?
From my own experience, dance education is an exceptional area for students to excel. It provides students with a more creative learning environment and I have found that students who struggle in more traditional subjects will often excel in dance education. It is proven that Maori and Pacific Island students (another culture that has a lower pass rate) have a much higher successful pass rate in dance education than in other more traditional subjects. I have also found from experience that a lot of troubled students stay in school for dance. It gives them a sense of purpose and achievement. Why can’t we provide more opportunities like this for our students to excel? What else can be done to give these students a sense of purpose and feel like they belong? The focus on Maori learners and their education needs to be intensified to develop them into lifelong learners. They deserve to be given the same opportunities to learn and excel within their education and future life. Let’s help our Maori youth feel like they belong within our society and education system.
Morgan's blog 