Maori-speaking students recognised by badges

A new initiative at Kaipara College aims to encourage more experiences to speak Maori within the community.

The school's Maori department has produced badges which students can earn during the year.

They are tested in te reo and can achieve two stages – He Akonga Reo and He Korero Maori.

He Akonga Reo students understand basic Maori about themselves and their whanau, while He Korero Maori students have more extensive ability.

Head of department Carlin Shaw says the badges will show the community of South Kaipara which students from the college can korero Maori.

"The hope is that the community will be encouraged to korero Maori with these students. The outcome is to build confident reo speakers."

Mr Shaw says the badges are something students should be proud to wear, with five currently attaining the He Akonga Reo level and one pupil has taken the challenge of a He Korero Maori badge.

"Te reo has grown here. There have been some good speakers of Maori come out of this school. But once they're out you don't know who they are – even students don't know."

Mr Shaw says there has been very positive feedback.

"Personally students like them because they look flash. However the responsibility of wearing them and talking te reo has been taken seriously."

Mr Shaw encourages anyone versed in te reo in the community to have a conversation with students wearing the badges.

"It's really about having experience talking. It's hard to find experience outside these four walls."

- © Fairfax NZ News