Growing skilful and talented leaders has been the focus for Middle School West Auckland’s bilingual unit, Pōhutukawa, with a unique leadership initiative.

Ngā Rangatira Mo Apōpō (Leaders of Tomorrow) is a localised student-led leadership programme aimed to develop student leadership through sport and physical activity.  The focus is on increasing students’ participation and confidence, and ultimately encouraging them to deliver their own opportunities.

The Pōhutukawa rangatahi designed, delivered, and led the six-week programme with the support of Sport Waitākere.

“The insights gathered from an earlier workshop informed us that the lack of opportunity, self-confidence and financial barriers were impacting these rangatahi and their ability to connect and participate within sports,” explains Jemma Palmer, Youth Sport Advisor at Sport Waitākere.

The resulting six-week initiative was facilitated by the rangatahi themselves.  They took responsibility for all aspects including planning, managing, coordinating, coaching, and refereeing – all empowering them with the tools to impact and influence each other.

“They created pou (teams) named Kaha, Maia, Manawanui and Autaia that were held together by values. They facilitated lunch time meetings and trainings, educating themselves with the rules and made decisions around roles and responsibilities. This created a sense of achievement, leadership, and boosted self-confidence,” says Jemma.

The pinnacle of this initiative was the full day rippa rugby tournament day that all pou had been working towards. The event included everyone and was delivered by the rangatahi themselves.

“This provided a platform to be able to participate in something brand new. It connected our rangatahi to roles and responsibilities that many could never see themselves being able to achieve. It created a safe and empowering space to learn, grow and develop,” adds Jemma.

Many of the students commented that the experience delivered many benefits, including confidence and the chance to grow new skills.

“I never thought I could help sort a tournament, but I really enjoyed this and hope I get to do it again,” commented one student.

“Being a part of the leadership group has given me the confidence to try and help others specially because we don’t get to have these kinds of day” and “Being in Autaia was the best - it’s the first time I’ve been in a team,” said others.

“The boys pass the ball because they knew the girls were two points, so I felt like part of the team,” concluded another.

James Young, Academic Manager and Pōhutukawa Technology Teacher said it was an awesome day.

“Our rangatahi did an amazing job especially before the tournament day getting information out and I know it is going to be great for their future organisation.  It showed them processes of organising a sports day.  Hopefully this will give us more days like this for our rangatahi.”

Article added: Monday 04 December 2023