Welcome to Room 4: In room 4 we will spend the first part of the year getting to know your tamariki, building relationships, and setting our expectations as we introduce our classroom routines. As room 4 will have two teacher’s this year we feel this is very important to establish first and foremost.

In line with government guidelines, students will take part in a minimum of one hour each of structured Reading, Writing, and Mathematics daily to build strong foundations and confidence. We will integrate inquiry learning and topic studies to ensure a broad and engaging curriculum, helping students make meaningful connections across all learning areas e.g. The Arts, Science, Social Sciences, Technology etc.

Swimming will take place in Terms 1 and 4, alongside a wider Health and Physical Education programme that promotes wellbeing and active lifestyles. Students will visit the Library each Monday afternoon to research and foster a love of reading. This year we will also extend learning around pepeha, strengthening students’ understanding of identity, culture, and belonging.

Whaea Ria: Opua has been home for the past 25 years. I have three adult children, Jackson, Ella, and Phoenix, who all went through Opua School, and I even spent some time on the Board of Trustees. I’ve taught for many years, mainly at secondary school, and more recently I’ve loved working in primary education, especially education outside the classroom. When I’m not teaching, I’m happiest hiking, biking, swimming, gardening, or out on the boat — anywhere in nature!

Whaea Martha: Born and raised in Tamaki Makaurau. I have two tamariki — Eva Rose (9) and Ezra (8). With 16 years’ experience in education, I am excited to be working at Opua this year. I love coaching netball, working as a personal trainer at Outfit North, camping, fishing, playing golf, exercising and spending time with my whānau.

We look forward to working in partnership with whānau to support every child to grow, learn and thrive in a safe learning environment.