ERO report on Maori needs off course, say teachers

Rotorua teachers are at odds with the Education Review Office over the value of cultural experiences in the classroom.

An ERO report, based on more than 400 schools, says although cultural programmes such as kapa haka groups and marae visits enhance Maori students' self-esteem, they are unlikely to improve educational achievements.

The report, titled Maori Students in Mainstream Schools, questions the way schools address Maori students' needs.

But Rotorua teachers and principals say children grow and learn through Maori cultural experience.

The Rotorua-based New Zealand Qualifications Authority national moderator of Maori Performing Arts, Donna Grant, says the report is "a load of rubbish".

"This wide-sweeping statement is based on little proof and with no basis of academic research that is normally aligned with judgmental statements of this nature," she said.

Results from a pilot project last year, Te Wharoa, conducted at 27 New Zealand secondary schools by the Manaakitanga Aotearoa Trust, proved Maori studies did enhance educational qualities, with 372 students graduating in the past year, said Mrs Grant.

Lakes High School and kapa haka teacher Beatrice Yates said Maori customs and history were important tools teachers used to reach many students who were struggling in the classroom.

A balance between Maori culture and the Pakeha way of learning was the way for many Maori students to reach their full potential, she said.

Rotorua Principals' Association president Garry de Thierry said it was important for Maori students to have a relationship with their culture.

- NZPA

ERO Reports