Warm welcome for Labour leader

HAERE MAI: Labour leader Andrew Little got a warm welcome from Tawhero School principal Chris Dibben on Thursday. PHOTOS/STUART MUNRO A-250615WCSMLITTLE3

Labour leader Andrew Little said he always enjoys a visit to Tawhero School and he received a warm welcome when he visited last Thursday with finance spokesman Grant Robertson.

"I used to be the buddy MP for Wanganui and I have always admired the community spirit they have here," he said. "The involvement with school families and the wider community is something to be admired and emulated."

Mr Little and Mr Robertson, accompanied by Te Tai Hauauru MP Adrian Rurawhe and Wanganui Deputy Mayor Hamish McDouall, received a warm welcome and a sumptuous afternoon tea, prepared by Cathy Purnell.

Ms Purnell recently received a Pride of New Zealand nomination for her support at the school, as well as other community work.

"I really enjoy my work at the school," she said. "Lots of families and community people help out and it is the culture here. It just makes you want to do your bit."

Tawhero School is a model for community involvement in recent years, with family and community breakfasts, programmes for parents, sporting and cultural events and supportive relationships with police and community groups.

The visitors joined principal Chris Dibben on a tour of classrooms, where they chatted with students and discussed their learning.