Kohanga Reo Kaiako
Tasks & duties
Kohanga reo kaiako may do some or all of the following:
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plan the kohanga reo daily programmes
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put into effect programmes to benefit children in terms of their reo (language), hinengaro (mind and heart), mana wairua (spirit), mana tinana (body), mana whenua (land and country), mana atua (god) and whanaungatanga (relationships)
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care for and educate children using stories, songs, art, toys and games
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monitor children's progress and discuss this with their whanau (families)
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attend monthly whanau hui (family meetings) and provide a report on the mokopuna (younger generation's) learning programme
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take responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the kohanga reo
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co-ordinate the work responsibilities of the kaiawhina (teaching assistants), ringawera (cooks and kitchen hands) and relievers to ensure the kohanga reo runs smoothly
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co-ordinate and supervise outdoor trips
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take part in fundraising and advertising activities for the kohanga reo
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implement kohanga reo policies and charter goals
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correspond and meet with other kaiako and kohanga reo organisers to discuss the policies and goals regarding the learning programme of each kohanga reo
Skills & knowledge
Kohanga reo kaiako need to have:
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an understanding of children's learning, health and development
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competency in te reo Maori
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knowledge of early literacy and numeracy
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knowledge of Maori customs and rites
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knowledge of kura kaupapa Maori schools, whanau classes and bilingual schools
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knowledge of the history of the kohanga reo movement
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knowledge of safety and health practices
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knowledge of child abuse and how to recognise it
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an understanding of the concept of whanau
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knowledge of iwi and hapu development
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the ability to teach and supervise children
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the ability to access information and resources
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communication and listening skills
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planning and organisational skills
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leadership ability
Entry requirements
To become a kohanga reo kaiako you need to be competent in te reo and tikanga Maori and must hold the Whakapakari Tohu Certificate or be working towards it. If a prospective kohanga reo kaiako obtains a position without the qualification, enrolment in the course is a prerequisite for full-time employment.
Secondary education
There are no specific secondary educational requirements, but having studied Maori is useful.
Training on the job
Kohanga reo kaiako receive Te Kohanga Reo Tino Rangatiratanga Whakapakari training on the job. They may also attend other professional development courses.
Useful experience
Useful experience for kohanga reo kaiako includes:
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childcare work or experience with children
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iwi, hapu and marae involvement
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counselling
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health or community work
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teaching experience
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kapa haka involvement
Related courses
Bilingual Early Childhood Teacher Training (Pre-Service)
Immersion Primary Teacher Training (Pre-Service)
Te Reo Maori
Teacher Education: General (Pre-Service)
Tikanga - Maori Customs
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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