Consultation on Tapasā –helping teachers work better with Pasifika learners

Tapasā, a new framework for teachers, is now out for consultation, says Karl Le Quesne, Acting Deputy Secretary for Early Learning and Student Achievement.

“We are keen to hear from anyone with a view on this – what works for you, things you would change and whether there’s anything missing. We especially want to hear from teachers, Pasifika learners, their parents and families and young people,” says Karl.

Initial teacher training providers, tertiary institutions, school board trustees, relevant government and non-government agencies are also invited to give feedback, as well as community and cultural leaders and groups.

Tapasā is a Samoan term for compass. Once finalised, the new competencies framework will help support teachers and leaders to strengthen their understanding, skills and knowledge when teaching Pasifika learners, from early childhood through to secondary schooling. The framework is also designed to help improve the way teachers and leaders engage with Pasifika parents, families and communities.

“We know that Pasifika learners – together with their parents, families and communities – thrive in early learning and at school when they are confident in their own distinctive identity, language and culture,” he says.

“We also know that the quality of the teaching in the classroom – along with the quality of school leadership, parental engagement and community expectations – are the factors that make the biggest difference in a child’s educational success. Tapasā intends to contextualise and articulate quality teaching and effective teaching practice in a Pasifika learner setting.”

The draft framework responds to one of the key priorities within the Government’s Pasifika Education Plan, to help improve outcomes for Pasifika learners by strengthening the Pasifika capacity and capability of the education workforce.

Tapasā will assist teachers in supporting all Pasifika learners to achieve their full potential.

To have your say on the framework, visit the Ministry Of Education website(external link)