Setty enlivens social time at The Pod

A Kuranui College student who clicks with kids is helping immensely with the development of young people at out-of-school hours and holiday childcare company, The Pod.

"A social activity hub with a community-focus, for school-aged kids" is the concept being developed by Sian Paterson, manager of The Pod in Wood St, Greytown.

"We feel there's nothing really in the South Wairarapa that focuses on the 5 to 12 years age group, so we're trying to build up The Pod to be a social hub for our local schoolchildren," Ms Paterson said.

"Part of ensuring that we're really catering to this age group is making sure that we've got role models for the children to look up to, because this is the most influential stage of their lives."

Ms Paterson said she turned to Kuranui College for help in finding the right kind of person.

"I approached the college looking for enthusiastic, confident and reliable young people, who wanted some work experience and a chance to show off some of their skills and talents. Kuranui's Di Banks suggested Year 13 student Setty Sammons," she said.

Setty started working at The Pod three months ago and is already a firm favourite.

"He's been so keen from the get-go. He's really been amazing. He's got such an incredible natural ability with kids. It's something you just can't teach someone.

"Children in this age group really need someone who is confident, someone who is going to initiate things and someone who is willing to have fun," Ms Paterson said.

"Setty has a great proactive approach with the kids, getting them outside most days to play games like touch or golf. Having someone who is active and willing to get dirty outside is really important for our school-aged kids.

"He does outdoor programmes with the boys and is an incredible role model, and that's what we were after here at The Pod."

The Pod opened in March and caters for a growing number of families who have chosen to live in South Wairarapa, Ms Paterson said.

For more information check out thepod.co.nz or call Sian Paterson on 06 304 8963.