Inside Ako Club

A hub of collaboration and support, called Ako Club, is happening every Tuesday afternoon in the Careers Room at Tikipunga High School, guided by Pathways Navigator Bradee Taituha and Year 13 Navigator Te Aranga Hopa

The programme is open to all students across all year levels and serves as a dedicated space designed to help students feel confident, prepared, and capable as they navigate their daily academic workloads and school responsibilities. Ako Club is a relaxed environment where students can stay on top of their classwork, homework, and any upcoming deadlines, while building positive learning habits.

To support students in achieving success in literacy, numeracy, and the attainment of CAAs, NCEA, and UE, the weekly programme focuses on:

• Personalised Planning: Helping students identify their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations to set achievable goals.
• Time Management: Teaching students how to create effective study plans and prioritise their weekly workloads.
• Study Techniques: Guiding students through proven study methods and practical exam preparation.

Thanks to a generous donation from Ally Fulcher (Programme Manager at Roots of Empathy), Ako Club students are equipped to do their work on 13 digital tablets.

The club’s positive, supportive environment thrives on a collaborative team effort. Alongside Bradee and Te Aranga, students receive regular guidance from Whaea Beth and Tikipunga High School Careers Advisor Whaea Rina, with Whaea Kylie also dropping in to lend an occasional helping hand.

Ako Club has also become a valuable incubator for student-led initiatives. This term, the Senior Māori class has been utilising the time to lead the strategic planning and management for the Year 7/8 kapa haka group as they prepare for the Regionals in November. This project represents a massive logistical undertaking, completely coordinated by the senior students. Their work on the kaupapa has included:

• Writing formal proposals to the Board and Principal, Emma Leyland.
• Composing original waiata.
• Developing original choreography.

Because of the extensive scope of work, leadership, and organisation involved, Te Aranga advised that these senior students will receive NCEA credits through their efforts.

Ako Club attendees also have access to practical resources right when they need them. For those looking to secure part-time employment, the afternoon sessions provide hands-on help with writing CVs, drafting cover letters, and practising basic interview skills. The team even assists students in sourcing appropriate interview clothing if required.

By blending academic support, peer leadership, and practical resources, Ako Club is helping students build the habits they need to finish the school year strong.