Pukeoware School was built in 1877, and has served children across the wider Waiuku community for 146 years.  We are a full primary school catering for boys and girls in Years 1 to 8.  We are a decile 7 school, with approximately 180 students.

Pukeoware School has 8 teachers, 5 teacher aides, an office administrator, and a caretaker. Staff operate in two syndicates – junior (beginning learners to Year 3) and middle/senior (Years 4 to 8). The senior leadership team consists of the Principal,  Deputy Principal and Junior School Leader.

Facilities include 8 classrooms .  We also have a library, an administration block with medical room and staff room, a sports shed, storage sheds, and have use of the neighbouring Pukeoware Community Hall.  All classrooms serve as ICT suites as full use is made of ICT resources.

The design of the school is largely traditional ‘single cell’, however a new 10-year property plan is currently being devised to include the development of more innovative learning environments.  Ako Timatanga block is a flexible learning environment, designed to start beginning learners on their school journey with the latest innovative teaching and learning practices.

Pukeoware School aims to support and guide each and every learner to reach their full potential.  Teaching and learning programmes provide students with opportunities to achieve success in all areas of the national curriculum.  The dedicated teaching and support staff works hard to ensure they create a ‘positive learning community that empowers confident life-long learners’.  High educational and social standards are set, and performance is reflected on regularly to ensure the schools’ approach supports modern teaching and assessment.

The core values of Kaha (strength), Mana (pride), Aroha (caring) and Toa (bravery) are at the core of everything the school does, promotes, and celebrates. They underpin teaching and learning, and provide an environment that prepares students as confident, happy learners. Pukeoware School strives to ensure students leave the school with the confidence to succeed and make positive choices for their futures. Close links with the local secondary school, Waiuku College, prepares students for a smooth transition to secondary education.

We have extensive programmes for students who have special needs, and for priority students needing support to work towards achieving the National Standards.  Junior teachers are Incredible Years For Teachers trained, and all teachers deliver inclusive programmes that nurture children’s social, emotional, and academic competence.

Pukeoware School promotes ‘student voice’, and likes to know what children think, feel, and understand about their education. Students are encouraged to discuss their learning both in and out of school. Reporting to parents on student progress and achievement includes learning conferences, where students share their learning journey and next steps. Formal written reports complement this.

Pukeoware students are proud of their school, and parents have many opportunities to be involved in their children’s learning. Our website and facebook page shares the wonderful work that happens at Pukeoware School, and engages parents and caregivers in its daily activities

We are part of the Waiuku Principal’s Network, and a Waiuku Community of Learning / Kahui Ako. There are currently 10 schools in the COL.

The Board of Trustees is made up of a mix of elected and co-opted members. Trustees are committed to providing the best opportunities for students and teachers. They are willing to learn and have attended workshops facilitated by the New Zealand School Trustees Association (NZSTA).