It is an absolute privilege to serve as Principal here at Papanui High School. Over the past two years, I have witnessed our school go from strength to strength. Building on our strong foundations, we have entered a period where our focus is firmly on high expectations and genuine belonging.
Our improvement is deliberate and visible. Academically, we have defied national trends with increases in NCEA attainment, supported by innovative curriculum pathways that meet every learner's needs. Whether through our Accelerated Learning programme for high achievers, our Low Sensory classes for those needing a calmer environment, or our Te Whatukura programme that delivers the curriculum through a Kaupapa Māori framework, we ensure every student has a place to succeed.
Our campus has been reimagined with the opening of 'Tuke', our Science and Mathematics hub, and 'Pārua', a state-of-the-art facility for Kimi Ora, Health, and Commerce.
Outside the classroom, our students are reaching new heights. We are the home of National Champions in Athletics, winners of the Linwood Cup in football, and our musicians consistently secure places in the National Secondary Schools' Symphony Orchestra.
Papanui High School is a community where 'My School, My Success, My Responsibility' is the lived experience of every student. I invite you to join us.
Ngā mihi matakuikui
Robert Gilbert
Tumuaki | Principal
| My School Tōku Kura | My Success Tōku Tiketike | My Responsibility Tōku Haepapa |
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At Papanui High School, our vision serves as the foundation for everything we do, creating a partnership between the learner, the school, and the wider community. It begins with My School, a commitment to fostering a deep sense of belonging and turangawaewae where every student feels safe, valued, and proud to call Papanui their own. This sense of place provides the platform for My Success, where we challenge our rangatahi to reach their personal tiketike, their own highest peak of excellence, across academic, cultural, and sporting endeavours. Ultimately, we empower our students to embrace My Responsibility, cultivating the independence and integrity needed to take ownership of their learning and their impact on the world. Together, these pillars ensure that every student leaves us not only with qualifications but with the character and direction to thrive.
WHANAUNGATANGA: COMMUNITY
We build our community together
This value is about fostering a sense of belonging, connection, and mutual respect. It transforms the school from just a place of learning into a true community where every individual feels safe, supported, and valued. Whanaungatanga emphasises that relationships are the foundation of everything we do.
HIRANGA: EXCELLENCE
We strive for our personal best
This value is about striving for personal best and pursuing high standards in all endeavours. "Hiranga" refers to importance or significance, so this value isn't just about academic grades; it's about personal growth and achieving one's full potential. Hiranga is the pursuit of excellence in character, effort, and achievement.
TIKA: INTEGRITY
We act with integrity always
This value is about being accountable for one's actions, words, and learning. It is the moral compass that guides decision-making. "Tika" is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Acting with integrity means being honest, reliable, and demonstrating strong character, which in turn builds one's personal mana and the mana of the school.
How we realise our vision and enact our values
- Be inclusive
- Show empathy
- Contribute positively
Be inclusive and welcoming: Actively include others and celebrate the diversity within the school.
Show empathy and respect: Listen to understand, support one another through challenges, and treat everyone with dignity.
Collaborate effectively: Work together in classrooms, on sports teams, and in cultural groups to achieve shared goals.
Contribute positively: Take pride in the school environment and actively participate in school life.
- Set high expectations
- Be resilient
- Commit to learning
Set high expectations: Aim high and challenge oneself to learn and grow.
Be resilient and persevere: Embrace challenges as learning opportunities and demonstrate determination in the face of setbacks.
Show commitment to learning: Be curious, engaged, and dedicated to acquiring new knowledge and skills.
Celebrate all forms of success: Recognise and celebrate achievements in academic, sporting, cultural, and personal domains.
- Be honest
- Show respect
- Lead by example
Be honest and trustworthy: Take ownership of mistakes and act truthfully in all situations.
Make responsible choices: Think about the consequences of actions on oneself, others, and the wider community.
Lead by example: Act as a positive role model and uphold the school's standards and expectations.
Show respect for people and place: Care for the school environment (kaitiakitanga) and interact with others in a way that honours their mana.
