Introduction
In today’s ever-evolving educational landscape, school principals play a crucial role in shaping the cultural and academic experiences of their students. Leadership in schools extends far beyond administrative duties—it involves fostering an inclusive and enriching environment where every student and staff member feels a sense of belonging. One of the most powerful tools available to school leaders in Aotearoa is pēpeha whakarite, which not only supports Māori students in reclaiming their cultural identity but also provides a meaningful way for all students and staff to connect with their own backgrounds. By embracing and modeling the use of pēpeha whakarite, principals can create a ripple effect, inspiring their staff, students, and even the wider school community to deepen their understanding of Māori culture and language.
School principals are more than just administrators; they are the guiding forces behind a school’s culture, values, and direction. As educational leaders, they carry the responsibility of not only upholding school traditions but also ensuring the holistic well-being of their diverse student body. One of the most significant responsibilities a principal has is fostering an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and cultural recognition.
For Māori students, the school environment has not always been one that prioritises their language, culture, and worldviews. Too often, they have felt unseen or pressured to suppress their cultural identity to blend in. This is where pēpeha whakarite becomes an invaluable tool. When used effectively, it provides an opportunity for Māori students to embrace their identity and, at the same time, offers a structured way for non-Māori students to connect with who they are through the pepeha urutau.
However, before staff and students can benefit from pēpeha whakarite, principals themselves must first understand and embody its significance. Their leadership in this area is crucial. By actively using Pēpeha whakarite, they set an example for their staff and students, showing that cultural respect and identity affirmation are essential components of the school experience. Understanding also the difference between pēpeha Māori and pēpeha urutau as the two types of pēpeha whakarite is also important. Thus, it is important for leaders and staff to embark on some professional development as soon as possible. Staff must clear about the taxonomy of pepeha in today’s complex world.
How Principals Can Lead with Pēpeha Whakarite
1. Demonstrating Commitment from the Start of the Year
The beginning of the school year is a time of setting expectations and building community. During introductory assemblies, staff meetings, and parent evenings, principals can use their own pēpeha whakarite to model how identity can be woven into the school’s culture. By doing so, they signal to staff and students that embracing culture and identity is a school-wide priority.
2. Embedding Pepeha Throughout the Year
Throughout the school year, there are numerous opportunities where the principal can integrate pēpeha whakarite:
At Staff Meetings – Leading with a pēpeha whakarite reinforces the importance of cultural identity and encourages staff to engage with it.
During Student Assemblies – Using pepeha in these settings can normalise and encourage students to share their own identity statements.
At Whānau and Community Engagement Events – Demonstrating the use of pēpeha helps bridge the gap between the school and the wider Māori community.
With the Board of Trustees – Principals can use pēpeha whakarite in Board meetings to demonstrate commitment to cultural leadership and encourage governance decisions that reflect the values of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
For Parents Wanting to Learn Te Reo Māori and Māori Culture – Schools are central hubs for learning, and principals can support initiatives where parents can also learn pēpeha, strengthening community ties and normalising Māori culture within the school environment. Throughout the school year, there are numerous opportunities where the principal can integrate pēpeha whakarite.
At Staff Meetings – Leading with a pēpeha whakarite reinforces the importance of cultural identity and encourages staff to engage with it.
During Student Assemblies – Using pēpeha in these settings can normalise and encourage students to share their own identity statements.
At Whānau and Community Engagement Events – Demonstrating the use of pēpeha helps bridge the gap between the school and the wider Māori community.
3. Closing the Year with Cultural Reflection
End-of-year events, prize-givings, and celebrations provide an excellent opportunity to reflect on the cultural journey taken throughout the year. A principal who acknowledges the role of pēpeha in fostering belonging and identity sends a strong message that this is not a one-off initiative but an integral part of the school’s approach.
Creating a Ripple Effect: Encouraging Staff and Students
When a principal confidently leads with pēpeha whakarite, the impact extends beyond their own words. Teachers begin to see its value and integrate it into their classrooms. Students feel encouraged to explore their identities in a safe and affirming environment. Ultimately, a school culture emerges where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
Conclusion
Leading with pēpeha whakarite is more than just a cultural gesture; it is a commitment to creating a school environment where all students, especially Māori students, can thrive. By setting the example, principals empower their staff to follow suit, creating a cohesive and inclusive learning space. In doing so, they uphold their responsibility as educational leaders—not just to maintain tradition but to innovate and adapt in ways that truly support the well-being and success of every student in their school.
Whakataukī
Ki te kahore he whakakitenga ka ngaro te iwi.(Without foresight or vision, the people will be lost.) (Chiefs are leaders, they must have many skills, including the ability to see into the future.)
This whakataukī reminds us that leadership is not just about making decisions—it is about sharing knowledge, fostering relationships, and guiding others through communication. By using pēpeha whakarite, principals model the kind of leadership that nourishes both staff and students, ensuring a culturally enriched and inclusive school environment.
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