Principals
“We feel very fortunate to have the Stars programme in our school. The silent voices are now being heard and it encourages reflection and gives confidence. The seniors are now exercising the leadership potential we knew they had.” – Principal, Akaroa Area School
“Our first goal in 2011 was to increase our attendance above 90%. We have about that now, but not just for Juniors but for Seniors as well. What surprised me was the change of attitude among Seniors once we implemented the Stars programme. They have taken it on themselves. All of a sudden they are important. They are being given training programmes, they are being given some status at the school, and I guess that status is saying ‘you are someone special for us, you are going to work with our Year 9’s.’” – Principal, Manurewa High School
Teachers
“As a classroom teacher, I found that the program aligned with our values that are not only integral to our school but vital for success across our tauira. My students enjoyed the vivacity of the leaders, the great energizers and the relevant mahi that was shared. I saw my students take risks within an environment that championed them. Thank you again for your outstanding insight to fill a niche that our Y7 & Y8 students need and benefit from.” – Helen Awheto, Tokoroa Intermediate School
“Having been involved with the Stars Teina Programme since it was introduced at Tokoroa Intermediate, I have been impressed with the quality and relevance of the programme for students at this age. I enjoy following up the lessons and reinforcing the values taught in my daily programmes. My students will often make connections between what is taught during their sessions and with what we are doing in our class as I feel capitalising on the teachable moment is very important. Our current facilitators, Santana and Pheylan, have been a credit to your programme with their enthusiasm and genuine concern for the students. Their interactions within the wider school community are positive and respectful, not easy as the staff here range in age from beginning teachers to someone like myself who is well into retirement years! I will miss being involved with these two fantastic facilitators and wish them well in all future endeavours.” – Kitty Moon, Tokoroa Intermediate School
Students
“I learnt how important team work is for the Stars leaders as well as the Year 9’s. I also gained some leadership skills and how to get the Year 9’s to listen and pay attention” – Peer Mentor, Kelston Girls School
“Stars has helped me in lots of ways. When I first started at high school, I wasn’t confident to face school challenges. Stars taught me communication, risk taking, having fun and teamwork.” – Peer Mentor, Auckland Seventh-day Adventist High School
“I have gained patience when dealing with students younger than me and boosted my confidence to lead a group of people, as well as take responsibility for my actions.” – Stars Peer Mentor