Tipu Tahi: Growing As One
In Term 3 of last year, I had the privilege of organising and leading Tipu Tahi alongside Mrs Alice Drummond, a professional learning event designed to support new and beginning teachers. The event brought together early career teachers from across Ōtautahi, with strong attendance reflecting a shared commitment to professional growth and collective support.
Tipu Tahi, meaning Growing Together, was grounded in the belief that the most meaningful professional learning is collective, relevant, and shaped by teachers themselves. Rather than prescribing content, the session was informed directly by what beginning teachers identified as most important to them. This led to rich, purposeful discussions around classroom management, student engagement, teacher wellbeing, and the growing role of AI in education, the topics closely connected to the realities of everyday teaching.
Recognising that the early years of teaching can be both exciting and challenging, Tipu Tahi was intentionally designed as a supportive space where teachers could connect, reflect, and learn alongside one another. The kaupapa centred on professional learning as something built with teachers, not for them.
The session reflected this approach through a balance of short provocation presentations and extended opportunities for teacher-led sharing. Opportunities to share strategies and experiences within subject areas revealed the rich professional knowledge that teachers bring, regardless of where they are in their careers.
One of the most powerful aspects of Tipu Tahi was witnessing the courage shown by beginning teachers. Many spoke honestly about challenges, reflected critically on their practice, and embraced vulnerability as a strength. This openness and willingness highlight that professional growth thrives through connection rather than isolation.
Tipu Tahi strongly embodied our school theme, Courage to Grow. As facilitators, we also demonstrated this courage by stepping into leadership, learning alongside colleagues, and responding authentically to their needs. With potential for the initiative to continue across schools, Tipu Tahi affirmed that when we have the courage to grow together, our entire profession is strengthened.
Words by Kistina Wu
Head of Learning Area – Technology
This article appeared in the Winter 2026 issue of the Rangi Ruru school magazine, Wide Sky. Read the full magazine here.