Birchwood School has a close relationship with our mana whenua iwi, Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō and works with the Kurahaupo Collective. We collaborated with them on our professional development, mural, enquiry and waharoa and were grateful to be gifted a narrative to inspire us.  We are committed to honouring the status of tangata whenua in this land and value the indigenous knowledge and wisdoms which enrich and guide our learning, teaching and actions.

Our ākonga are enabled to participate in meaningful ways in the life of Birchwood School. We foster student enquiry, decision making, action and reflection. Their unique perspectives are valued for the knowledge and insight that they bring. Tauira are supported to take action for real change - like organising a clothing swap to reduce fabric in landfill, running a koha table, designing a pollinator pathway and setting up a new recycling station for plastics.

We act in ways that nurture all aspects of nature, including people, now and in the future.  Birchwood takes the stance that ‘when you know better you do better’ as we continually improve our systems, change our suppliers and introduce new ways of being and doing.   Our Bioblitz gave us a starting point to set goals towards our school as a sustainable sanctuary for creatures and humans.  We want enough of what we need for everyone to thrive now and in the future. 

We acknowledge the unique gifts, contributions and perspectives of individuals and groups.  We celebrate diversity in our decision making and engage in collaborative action.  Birchwood kaiako nurture and value the cultural knowledge each student brings with them.  With inclusion in mind, we have developed accessible calming spaces like the memorial garden, tinker shed & sunshine room.