AUT - COMET - working with a charitable trust
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COMET - working with a charitable trust
COMET is a charitable trust established by Manukau City Council to provide analysis, advocacy and leadership for education and facilitation and coordination of collaborative community education projects. Principal for the Day is one of these projects - and it’s a great way to spend a day. COMET relies upon support from Manukau City Council who are gold sponsors and MIT who provide COMET with office accommodation and technical support throughout the year.
The COMET Principal for a Day requires a lot of organization we had the opportunity to provide feedback to civic leaders on how school business relationships can be brokered through the new Auckland Council.
Pauline Winter (Director Office of Pasifika Advancement ) took part in Principal for a Day at Maraetai Beach Primary School and has provided feedback below:
What was the purpose of the day?
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Principal for a Day is organised by COMET (City of Manukau Education Trust) and the purpose is to increase understanding of leadership challenges facing schools. Business and community leaders visit a school and spend time alongside the Principal.
Were you welcomed by staff and children at a school assembly?
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I arrived at my school for the day - Maraetai Beach Primary School situated in a small seaside community about 45 minutes from Auckland City. The school is 125 years old, has 270 children with 12 teaching staff.
How many rooms did you visit?
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I visited two classes, one for new entrants. I spent time listening to the children reading and discussing stories. I also sat with children who were creating their own Hansel and Gretel stories on the computer. I was fascinated by the level of skill from both classes and particularly the new entrants who were very engaged in the activities set and their knowledge of words.
Did any children take your interest?
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I was particularly impressed by the new entrant teacher, who was engaged with the 5 year old children. She firmly but gently encouraged their participation, concentration, and behaviour nonstop for the time I was in the room. I felt exhausted just watching her and was impressed at the ease to which she switched from firm, to soft, to cajoling to rewarding. Can you remember the last conversation you had with one 5 year old and can you imagine having those conversations with a dozen?
Any anecdotes or stories to relate?
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I also enjoyed interacting with older students (10 year olds) who were reading out loud from their latest assigned book. The teacher engaged them at different points of the story to discuss various parts of the story - either unusual words (tapu) or place names. Once again the students were very engaged, focussed and were obviously enjoying the session.
What did you get out of the day?
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I enjoyed being back at a small, semi rural school - the culture and atmosphere is always one of community.
Did you enjoy visiting Maraetai Beach Primary School?
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Yes I enjoyed my time at the school and working alongside the Principal, Lesley Pether. Although Lesley was only appointed earlier in the year, her leadership is evident with the students, teachers, parents and community.