On Monday the 24th of February, we were thrilled to launch the newest Telling Your Stories project at Ridgway School in Wellington. This project tells the fascinating story of how the school came to be, tracing its roots back to one of Wellington’s earliest schools, Vogeltown School, and its transformation into Ridgway School.
“It’s been a fantastic experience working alongside the team to develop and craft our local story. The children have been delighted to learn more about our history and were so excited to see the finished story!” Says Sarah Patterson, Principal.
Strengthening Community Connection Through Storytelling
Storytelling is a cornerstone of cultural preservation and identity-building. This project was created to ensure that the story reflects the deep history and mana whenua of the region. By weaving together historical accounts, iwi narratives, and school archives, the story serves as a bridge between past and present, reinforcing the importance of whanaungatanga (relationships) in the learning journey of tamariki.
We were privileged to have Del Costello, our writer and director, introduce the project to the school’s teachers. Their excitement was evident as they explored how this unique historical narrative could be seamlessly integrated into their curriculum. This project provides endless opportunities for inquiry-based learning, helping students engage with history in a way that is meaningful and relevant to them.
Place-Based Learning, and integration of Local Histories in the New Te Mātaiaho Curriculum
With the introduction of the Te Mātaiaho English curriculum, there is a growing emphasis on local curriculum and place-based learning. By embedding local history into the classroom, we empower students to develop a strong sense of belonging and identity within their community. The Ridgway School story highlights significant local events, figures, and landscapes, allowing students to see themselves reflected in their learning materials.
A particularly exciting aspect of this project is its archival component. The school’s extensive collection of historical photos and documents provided a treasure trove of insights into how the school evolved over decades. These archives, featuring images of past students and teachers, offer a tangible connection between generations, making history come alive for today’s learners.
The Role of Art in Storytelling
Visual storytelling plays a crucial role in engaging young minds. For this project, the illustrations were developed in collaboration with local artist Preehya Patel, who specialises in native birds and plants. Preehya is also commissioned to create a mural at the school. She worked alongside TYS illustrator Kate Costello to ensure the images authentically represented the school’s surroundings and its whānau. The artwork beautifully captures the essence of the region, making the story even more immersive for students.
Early Exposure to Te Tiriti o Waitangi Principles
By embedding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi into storytelling, we provide young learners with an early understanding of New Zealand’s foundational document. This story highlights the significance of mana whenua, the role of local iwi, and the importance of historical context in shaping our present. Through discussions about figures such as Abel Tasman and the historical interactions between Māori and European settlers, students can engage critically with the past and develop a deeper understanding of bicultural perspectives.
The Lasting Impact of Local Stories
The Telling Your Stories initiative at Ridgway School is a testament to the power of local narratives in education. By integrating history, community collaboration, and visual storytelling, we are creating meaningful learning experiences that resonate with students and teachers alike. This project not only celebrates the school’s unique history but also serves as a model for how local curriculum can be effectively implemented in alignment with the Te Mātaiaho framework.
We look forward to seeing how Ridgway School continues to engage with this story, using it as a catalyst for deeper learning, cultural connection, and an enriched sense of place within their community.
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