Welcome to Ōtamarākau School
We are a five teacher rural school where our AROHA values of Awesome, Respect, Ownership, Honesty, and Active Learner are part of everyday life. At the heart of our kura are strong relationships, a real sense of belonging, and a community that works together to help every child thrive.
Our dedicated staff and supportive Board are committed to creating a positive learning environment where every student is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. As a small school, we are able to build genuine connections with our tamariki and celebrate each child's unique strengths.
We have high expectations for learning, behaviour, and personal growth. Whether it's in the classroom, on the sports field, through cultural experiences, or in leadership opportunities, we encourage our students to give things a go, believe in themselves, and be proud of who they are.
We would love to welcome you and your whānau to experience what makes Ōtamarākau School such a special place.
We are a five teacher rural school where our AROHA values of Awesome, Respect, Ownership, Honesty, and Active Learner are part of everyday life. At the heart of our kura are strong relationships, a real sense of belonging, and a community that works together to help every child thrive.
Our dedicated staff and supportive Board are committed to creating a positive learning environment where every student is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. As a small school, we are able to build genuine connections with our tamariki and celebrate each child's unique strengths.
We have high expectations for learning, behaviour, and personal growth. Whether it's in the classroom, on the sports field, through cultural experiences, or in leadership opportunities, we encourage our students to give things a go, believe in themselves, and be proud of who they are.
We would love to welcome you and your whānau to experience what makes Ōtamarākau School such a special place.
Our Vision & Mission ↓
At Ōtamarākau School, our vision is to nuture confident, capable learners who are prepared for the future. We aim to provide a supportive rural learning environment where children are encouraged to grow, explore new opportunities, and develop the skills they need to succeed in an ever changing world. |
At Ōtamarākau School, we work together with students, staff, and whānau to support learning that lasts a lifetime. We provide engaging learning opportunities, encourage curiosity, and create a positive environment where every child feels supported to grow, achieve, and develop confidence in their abilities. |
Our School History ↓
Ōtamarākau School has been an important part of the local community for more than a century. Ōtamarākau School first opened on 1 August 1916 with just nine students taught by Miss Hester Sadler in a small single classroom building. Over time, the number of students grew as more families settled in the area.
In the early years, Ōtamarākau School was very simple, with one small building and basic facilities. In 1941, the school moved to a new site on Old Coach Road, where it continues to stand today. As the community developed , the school roll changed over the years, sometimes growing to more than 100 students, showing its importance to local families.
Today Ōtamarākau School continues to be a valued part of the local community. The school provides a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to grow, achieve, and take pride in their learning. With strong connections to whānau and the surrounding rural community, Ōtamarākau School remains committed to supporting confident learners and preparing them for the future while honouring its proud history.
Our Place In The Community ↓
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Ōtamarākau School enjoys strong connections with our local community and surrounding rural area. Our students are given opportunities to take part in community events, environmental activities and cultural experiences that help them stay connected to the people and places around them. Being part of a rural coastal community allows our tamariki to learn beyond the classroom, explore their natural surroundings and develop respect for the environment. We value the support of our whānau and community members, who play an important role in school life through events, celebrations and shared learning experiences. These connections help strengthen student's confidence, sense of responsibility and pride in where they live, while building lasting relationships within our school and wider community. |