Bicultural Partnership Statement

Acknowledgement of Tangata Whenua

Rationale

Avonside Early Childhood Centre acknowledges and reflects the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua. Children are given the opportunity to develop knowledge and an understanding of the cultural heritages of both parties to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Every child in the Centre has a right to understand and be confident in their own culture, to learn and understand Māori language, customs, values and practices, to appreciate the heritage of Aotearoa and to develop the ability to be sensitive to the cultures of other people.

·         An understanding and sensitivity to cultural differences will be observed.

·         Addressing equity issues to achieve genuine opportunities for participation by Māori and quality outcomes for Māori children.

·         A budget will be made available for the resources to ensure that the curriculum is culturally appropriate.

·         Ongoing opportunities for professional development for educators/management will be made.

·         Management and staff will develop flexible procedures for consultation with Māori whānau in order to establish a collaborative approach in developing plans and policies for the Centre.

·         The programme will reflect the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua; (e.g. use of natural materials, encouraging the use of Te Reo and Tikanga Māori in the Centre greetings, farewells and daily routines, correct pronunciation of names and observances of protocols).

·         Guidance from outside agencies and specialist services will be accessed when a need is identified.