MAPI (Māori and Pacific Islander) contributes to our mission of fostering family and cultural group involvement in our education programmes. It began in 2019, and the number of attendees has grown exponentially since then, reaching an average of 30-40 students from Years 7-12 to this day.
The program focuses on improving students’ behaviour by promoting respect for themselves and their learning environment and encouraging positive influence on others. Amongst Polynesian and Melanesian people, in essence, this is what we call MANA.
Students are guided to nurture their own MANA by sharing information about their heritage and the experiences that forged them to become who they are, as well as learning about Māori and Pacific Island history and culture through Waiata, Haka, Artwork and Te Reo Maori (language). These cultural touchpoints help students reflect on themselves and others, fostering responsible young adults.
Students are also encouraged to share personal interests such as sports, hobbies, and future ambitions to enrich their experience and create a sense of belonging among the group.
We are fortunate to have several MAPI mentors from New Zealand who guide students exceptionally at each encounter through the power of music and storytelling.
Students interested in enrolling, all they have to do is sign up and bring a permission sheet signed by a parent/caregiver.
For more information about the MAPI program, please email Gilmore College on Gilmore.College@education.wa.edu.au or (08) 6595 2700.
