About the standard:

The Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnership aims to improve outcomes for Māori students by including Māori perspectives, values, and language in education. It’s about honouring Māori culture and helping students feel proud of their identity. By using te reo Māori and tikanga in the classroom, teachers can create inclusive spaces where all learners feel respected and supported. This helps promote success, wellbeing, and a strong sense of belonging for Māori students.

Professional Learning is about the ongoing development and growth of teachers and their practice. It involves engaging in activities like workshops, conferences, collaboration, and self-reflection to improve teaching skills. This standard highlights that when teachers continue to learn and improve, the quality of education for students also improves. 

Professional Relationships are about building positive connections, interactions, and collaborations with others. They are based on trust, respect, clear communication, and valuing diverse perspectives. Strong professional relationships require setting clear boundaries, active listening, giving and receiving feedback, and resolving differences respectfully. These skills help create a supportive and productive learning environment for both teachers and students. 

Learning-Focused Culture is about creating an environment where students are actively engaged and supported in their learning. It promotes a student-centred approach that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and independence. 

Design for Learning is about planning and creating meaningful, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences that meet the diverse needs of students. It involves selecting appropriate strategies and making sure learning is relevant, accessible, and interesting for all learners. This aligns with the New Zealand Curriculum's focus on inclusivity and engagement. 

Teaching as a professional practice involves guiding and supporting students in their learning. Effective teaching uses a range of strategies and inclusive practices to meet the needs of all learners. Reflection is a key part of good teaching, as it allows teachers to assess their own practice and make improvements that benefit student learning.