Home

Term Dates

Motto

Ko Ruawaahia te maunga
Ko Tarawera te awa
Ko Rangiaohia te whare tupuna
Ko Te Arawa te waka
Ko Ngati Rangihihi te iwi
Tihei Mauri Ora!

Whakapou Korero (Fount of Learning) was given to us by a local kaumatua and past pupil, Mr Jack Brady in honour of our Centenary. Our motto, like so many Maori sayings, encompasses far more meaning than a simple translation would indicate. Probably the best english equivalent is Fount of Learning, and yet this does not say it all, because in Maori, the phrase includes more than merely secular knowledge; there is also an element of spiritual learning. Thus the phrase or motto is particularly apt for our school where the two elements of secular and religious teachings are inextricably woven together. Whakapou Korero, and thus our school through its motto, expresses its long links with the local people of Ngati Rangitihi.

Welcome from the Board of Trustees and Principal of St Joseph's School Matata

St Joseph's was established in 1891 by the Sisters of St Joseph's and the Mill Hill Fathers. The mission statement of our school with parents and the community is to enable all pupils, through the example of Jesus, as portrayed in their Catholic tradition, to grow towards a wholeness of being in which touch with their involved with their individual, spiritual, emotional, cultural, intellectual and physical potential is developed and intimately linked.

We will endeavour to develop each child to his or her full potential in an atmosphere that fosters independence, creativity, diligence, pride in oneself and pride in one's school. From this comes achievements for all and the ability to approach the future with confidence.

We promote a strong and active partnership between home and school. We encourage parents to be involved and support their child's education.

Our staff are qualified and offer quality learning experiences through exciting and innovative programmes that cater for students' needs with the future in mind.

We welcome the participation of Whanau in the school, especially to help in the classrooms or to offer their skills.

Arohanui,

Mrs Bridget Rika Mr Terry Murphy
PRINCIPAL CHAIRPERSON BOT