Scheme for Maori students attracts Canadian interest

A programme helping under-achieving Maori students piloted in Rotorua has drawn the attention of international educators.

Te Kotahitanga, aimed at raising Maori students' achievement levels, was trialled at Rotorua's Lakes High School and Mokoia Intermediate last year.

After winning Government-funded scholarships, Lakes High School principal John Ellis and Year nine dean Tony Renshaw visited schools in British Columbia in April, talking about the project's success.

As a result, a team of Canadian education administrators were in Rotorua last week checking how the programme could help indigenous students struggling at their schools.