Kāwai Kōrero - Cultural Narrative

E ngā hau e whā. From all corners of the world, people have been settling in Whakatū via land, sea and air for many years. Migration has enabled every culture to bring with them their own stories, beliefs and values. We celebrate the diversity of the journeys that have been undertaken to reach Victory Primary School. We recognise the role that they play and how it supports our understanding of the different heritage within our kura. When we know the whakapapa of where we have come from, we can better understand where we are going.

We recognise the historical connections between this rohe and our 8 Mana Whenua iwi; Ngāti Kuia, Rangitāne, Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, Ngāti Koata, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Tama and Te Ātiawa. There is importance in acknowledging these connections to our past, present and future. Our kura and hapori is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the bicultural heritage of Aotearoa.

Each culture has its own unique textile pattern or design that tells a story of cultures and identity. However, like the muka flax cloth, clothing is used to provide comfort and protection. We celebrate our diversity and connections and acknowledge the shared notion that clothing provides comfort and protection for all. Homelands inspire the colours used to connect to the natural environment and resources

At Victory Primary School we embrace our diversity, identities, languages and cultures and have pride in where we have come from, where we are now, and where we are going. We value and seek partnerships with the voices of whānau and community. We work hard to ensure that everyone in our school achieves the same positive outcomes regardless of their background or individual needs. Everyone's voice is unique and equal and everyone matters at Victory.

We celebrate our Pasifika communities at Victory Primary School. There are connections between Māori and Pasifika within iwi and hapu of the Whakatū area. This has contributed to our evolving diversity over time encompassing a variety of languages, arts, customs, values and perspectives. Our interwoven identities, languages and culture strengthen and enrich our community.