How We Do It
We practice in a collaborative manner which ensures that the voices of ākonga, their whānau, teachers, support staff and therapists are all held at the heart of what we do. Whanaungatanga is at the core of this work.
Transdisciplinary Practice
A trans-disciplinary approach has all our professionals working together. This includes the teacher, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and speech language therapist. This offers an integrated, holistic approach to students’ needs. It improves the quality and effectiveness of teachings and therapy, and provides greater consistency, predictability and emotional stability for our students and teams.
Student Centred
At Oaklynn we believe that the curriculum must ‘fit the student’ in that it must be responsive to a student’s needs, strengths and interests. We hold the learning of students with special education needs and wellbeing of these students and their families at the centre of everything we do. This is our special character. The learning and wellbeing of students guides us in all we do.
Whānau Engagement
Relationships are central to ā healthy and productive school learning community. We believe that in order to enhance the learning needs and wellbeing of students, it is important to work in partnership with families. Relationships are paramount, as they act as the ‘glue’ for the community as it works in partnership to promote optimum learning and wellbeing for all students.
Individualised Learning
Learning must support the whole student - their holistic needs. Learning programmes are selected from a range of areas to meet all the aspects of development and learning; social, emotional, cognitive, physical and communication. Student priority needs are reflected in their Personalised Learning Plan (PLP) which is developed in collaboration with family, whānau, and carers.
Checkpoints
At key stages in the student’s learning pathway, a member of the Senior Management Team, a member of the therapy team and the Class Teacher, meet with whānau or carers. The focus of the meeting is for the family to share information with the school about their child, firstly by giving a profile of their child and then by sharing their vision for their child’s future.
Reporting to Whānau
Storypark is a ‘free for families’ platform, accessible on your computer or phone, where teachers and other professionals can document and support your young person’s learning for you to see. It’s also quick and easy to upload your own photos and stories to share. You are also able to easily share these learning stories with friends and families around the world.