Ākonga engagement

Whānau Support

Practical ways whānau can help ākonga stay connected with their learning, keep mahi moving, and prepare for Te Aka Taumatua opportunities.

Supporting ākonga engagement

Small routines make learning easier to return to

Engagement at Te Kura is about being present in learning: logging in, doing mahi, asking questions, and keeping connected with the people who can help.

Start with connection

Help ākonga know who they can contact

Stuck? The first step is simple: contact a kaimanaaki or kaiako early. A quick message can help reset the plan, clear up instructions, or make the next piece of mahi feel manageable.

1

Jump online regularly

Encourage tamariki to check their My Te Kura Account often, open and complete modules, and notice what needs attention this week.

2

Keep mahi moving

A small amount of work done often is easier to sustain than waiting until everything feels urgent.

3

Message early

If instructions are unclear, a device is not working, or motivation has dropped, contact a kaimanaaki or kaiako before the gap gets bigger.

4

Build a weekly rhythm

Choose regular learning times, keep laptop charged and nearby, and check in together about what has been completed and what is next.

Getting ready

Prepare for Huinga Ako, STAR, trips, and assessments

Use the Event Calendar to find what is coming up, then help ākonga check details, ask questions, and arrive ready to take part.

Huinga Ako

Connect and learn together

Check the date, region, location, and any preparation notes. Encourage ākonga to bring questions and be ready to participate.

View Huinga Ako

STAR Courses

Plan the next step

Look for upcoming STAR options, then contact your kaimanaaki to talk through suitability, timing, and how you can apply.

View STAR Courses

Trips

Know the key details

Check dates and general trip information early. For permission, travel, gear, and safety details, follow up with the relevant kaiako.

View Trips

Assessments

Prepare before it is due

Help ākonga note assessment windows, gather what they need, and contact kaiako early if they are unsure about expectations.

View Assessments

Meet your support team

Ākonga are not learning alone

At Te Kura, ākonga have people around them who can help with planning, coursework, wellbeing, engagement, and learning opportunities.

Kaimanaaki

Your main go-to person

Kaimanaaki help ākonga set up their PLP, check in on progress, support wellbeing, and build engagement, goals, and study routines.

Kaiako

Subject learning support

Kaiako are subject experts who guide coursework and assessments, answer learning questions, and provide feedback on mahi.

Kaiāwhina

Activities and events support

Kaiāwhina encourage and motivate ākonga, and help them join in activities, events, and wider learning opportunities.

Supervisor and whānau

Learning support at home

Supervisors and whānau are key people who help with routines, encouragement, learning spaces, and staying connected with the support team.

Stay connected

Reach out by email, text, phone, online, or at Huinga Ako

Ākonga, whānau, and supervisors are encouraged to stay in touch. If you are not sure who to contact, start with your kaimanaaki or call us toll free at 0800 65 99 88.