Tēnā tātou e te whānau,
With the recent legislative changes removing the requirement for schools to “give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” we know some in our community may feel uncertain about what this means for our kura.
As your Board we want to offer clarity and reassurance.
Our values and commitments have not changed.
While national policy settings may shift, the foundations that guide our school do not have to. We remain firmly committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi in our governance, planning, and decision-making — just as we have done for many years.
We do not see this commitment as burdensome. In fact, Te Tiriti provides a clear pathway for building an inclusive school grounded in respect, partnership, and belonging for all.
Keeping Te Tiriti at the heart of our kura means:
• Māori students feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are.
• All students deepen their understanding of our shared history and culture.
• We strengthen our relationships with Te Āti Awa / Taranaki Whānui as mana whenua.
• Every child grows up knowing they belong in Aotearoa and that their identity is valued.
These outcomes sit at the centre of our aspirations for all tamariki at Lyall Bay School.
Our ongoing relationship with mana whenua is especially important to us. This partnership enriches our identity as a kura and supports our journey to grow cultural capability, reflect the whenua we stand on, and strengthen the connection our tamariki have to the land, stories, and people of this area.
Like many kura across Te Whanganui-a-Tara, we believe Te Tiriti provides a historical foundation for Aotearoa and a pillar for an education system that truly includes and uplifts all children.
Therefore, the Board has formally reaffirmed that Lyall Bay School will continue to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, guided by our values, the aspirations of our whānau, and our responsibility to ensure every learner can achieve to their highest potential.
We know public discussion on this kaupapa can bring out a range of emotions and perspectives. We welcome open, thoughtful, and respectful kōrero from our community. If you have pātai or whakaaro you would like to share, please feel free to contact the board directly (bot@lyallbay.school.nz)
Together, we will ensure that Lyall Bay School remains a place where all students feel included, supported, and empowered to thrive, now and into the future. 'Waihangatia ngā Ākonga Tino Pai Building the Best Learners'.
Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa for your continued trust and support.
Nā mātou,
The Lyall Bay School Board