Pūtaiao Tamariki

Pūtaiao Tamariki is a science discovery, personal development and whanau engagement programme for low-decile primary schools in Southland that improves science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) knowledge, encourages STEM discovery, increases life-skills, self-confidence and wellbeing, and improves wh?nau involvement in children’s education.

Pūtaiao Tamariki delivers experiment-based field sessions tailored to different natural environments (including urban areas), ensuring the programme can eventually be delivered at any Southland primary school (after school hours), regardless of location or resources.

The following environments feature prominently in Pūtaiao Tamariki delivery

* Marine (rocky shore, beaches)
* Fluvial (rivers, streams, lakes)
* Alpine (mountains, other geological features)
* Urban (urban parks, suburban environments)
* Pastoral (tussock & grasslands, working farms)
All sessions are hands-on, highly-interactive and delivered in interesting field locations. Students are provided with a free, healthy afternoon tea prior to sessions, and sessions also incorporate regular physical and cultural activities to provide varied stimulation and constructive concentration breaks. The programme also actively encourages participation of whanau.

OUTCOMES

Pūtaiao Tamariki aims to achieve the following outcomes for high-priority children:

Improve overall self-confidence and wellbeing of children and whanau.
Improve relationships between children and whanau.
Inspire STEM-based curiosity and develop confidence in core STEM concepts.
Support the removal of barriers to further STEM learning.
Encourage the exploration of future STEM-based educational and vocational pathways.
Connect children with STEM in their own environmental and cultural contexts.
Encourage closer involvement of whanau in children’s STEM experiences

Pūtaiao Tamariki is funded by Nation of Curious Minds, through Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise