Literacy Waitākere has given me a reason to get out of bed. Literacy Waitākere is a foundation and a stepping-stone for me. Being part Maori, I find the Te Whare Tapa Wha important to me [a Maori pedagogy underpinning the way our tutors work]. For instance, on the Wairua (spiritual) side, we have Karakia and waiata. The Tinana side (physically), we have Brain Gym, and study learning about healthy eating and hydration for learning which is good for the mind. On the Whanau (family) side, we have become like a family and support each other. For Hinengaro (Mental health) we have done relaxation and stress management exercises which helps my anxiety around learning. Literacy Waitākere has been supportive of my mental health whereas other places haven’t been. I would be lost without Literacy Waitākere and all the support they have been giving me.
LS – Learner
