Our School

Kawerau South School is a contributing primary school situated in the township of Kawerau, in the Eastern Bay of Plenty of New Zealand. The school opened in June 1963 and has a current roll of approximately 330 students. 

Our student population identifies as 87% Māori, 10% Pakeha New Zealand European, 2% Asian and 1% Pacific.

The school campus is set in very large grounds, with extensive open spaces for children to play and explore. 

Our school is proud of our valued partnership with mana whenua. Tūwharetoatanga influences the school values and local curriculum, promoting learner identity and belonging.

Kawerau South School is organised into four learning syndicates: Kura Teina (Years 1-2), Kura Tuakana (Years 3-6), Opunoke (Years 1-6) our Te Ao Māori Space where 51-80% of Te Reo Māori is taught.  We aslo have a Special Needs Unit, Takiwātanga which caters for ORS Funded akongā as well as some learners who experience success in this unique learning environment.  

The school has a number of other teaching specialists, including .6 Makerspace teacher, .4 specialist teacher of Reading (SPELD trained) and a .6 Sports Co-ordinator. 

Strong family connections and traditions form an important part of school life. Many current students have whānau who attended South School, and they now in turn continue to offer strong support for the school.