top of page

School Structure

For some, this may be your first time working in a school. We have gathered some of the many acronyms and words that you will come across on practicum to help you understand what is going on. We have also included some te reo Māori translations.

school lunch.jpg

Administration

School Administration are in charge of curriculum, administration, school events, schedules, student affairs, and budget allocation. Administration includes leadership roles such as principals and vice principals.

Associate Teacher

The teacher allocated to mentor and support you on practicum.

Kaiako Hāpai

Children

Young people

Tamariki

Community leader/mentor

University mentor

Kaihāpai

Family

Relatives, caregivers, and support people

Whānau

HOD

The leader of an academic area in a highschool.

Head of Department

IEP

A plan developed for a learner in collaboration with everyone that works with them to identify learning goals specific to their needs

Individual Education Plan

Learner

Student.

Ākonga

MOE

The government department in charge of schooling in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Ministry of Education

ORS

Additional funding provided to learners with the highest needs for specialist support

Ongoing Resource Scheme

PCT

A beginning teacher in their first 2 years of registration

Provisionally Certified Teacher

PD

Training conducted throughout the year to help teachers develop their craft.

Personal Development

Pepeha

A traditional Māori introduction that is personal to the individual.

Pepeha

Prayer

Spoken chant or saying to clear the space and start a meeting with good intentions. Often said at the start and end of the day at school, and before eating.

Karakia

STC

Facilitating student teachers in secondary school.

Student Teacher Coordinator/Kaihāpai-a-kura

School

Learning environment

Kura

Student Teacher

A student who is learning to be a teacher.

Kaiako Pitomata

TA

A supporting role who assists with student learning.

Teacher Aide

Teacher

The person responsible for education in the classroom.

Kaiako
bottom of page