How does it work?

Ahutoetoe school is a hybrid learning environment which means we have the flexibility to adapt our spaces to support different types of learning. When needed, we can close off areas to create quiet, focussed learning zones. 

Within our hubs, great learning takes place in our shared spaces but much of the day is spent in smaller groupings using our breakout spaces designed for targeted teaching. Core curriculum areas like reading, writing and maths are taught in smaller groups, allowing learners to work or be taught at the level right for them. This approach ensures they receive the appropriate mix of support and challenges from their teachers. 

As a brand new kura/school our space has many purpose-built design features such as; glass sliding doors, soundproofing in the walls and ceilings, specific collaboration areas, and smaller group rooms which supports the science of learning and structured approaches to teaching and learning. We are also fortunate to have state of the art standards for acoustics, lighting, air quality and heating/cooling. We have the ability to create spaces within each hub that can act like a traditional classroom when it best benefits our learners. Our school prioritises flexibility, meaning we can open a class when it is time to collaborate, or be creative, and close it for focused learning. 

What does this look like?

As a new school we have invested heavily in professional development around the best use of these spaces for teaching and learning. We know that great teachers are the key and our teachers use the most effective teaching strategy for the type of learning happening. 

What does this feel like?

Our school vision and values start with Hono/Connections and Whanaungatanga because we know that the relationship between a teacher and learner has a real impact on achievement. Having the hybrid space means that learners still feel like they belong to their class, their teachers, and that they're part of that little community, but they’re also part of something larger that they can contribute to. 

Why Collaborative Practice?

21st Century learning encompasses being student centered, innovative, and inquiry based.

By one popular estimate, 65% of children who are currently entering primary school will eventually work in a job that does not exist today (World Economic Forum, 2017).

Student-centered, 21st century learning prepares students for the challenges and opportunities that will arise from changes in technologies, economies, and societies. 

Evidence shows a need to shift towards developing skills in the 4Cs:

Creativity

Creative Thinking

Collaboration

Communication

By focusing on strengthening a student's ability to evaluate information and to combine that information with imagination and ingenuity to create something new and innovative.

Collaborating with others develops the cognitive and interpersonal skills they will need to communicate, innovate and use information differently in the digital age. 

Evidence, both nationally and internationally, highlights that teachers are better able to meet the diverse needs of children and provide targeted support and challenge through collaborative teaching.

Likewise, learning through collaborative teaching and collaborating with one another in a variety of ways enables learners to build skills in team work, listening, sharing their ideas, reflecting, and cooperating. 

Our spaces are perfectly set up to enable this teaching and learning. Teachers work side by side with each other and learners have opportunities to work with all teachers in their hub as well as all of their peers.

Dr Julia Atkin, an independent education and learning consultant, discusses collaborative teaching and learning, and the spaces we learn in. "How well is this space set up for me to learn...?"