In 2026 we are excited to launch the OHS Learning Toolkit, Te Ara Hiranga, which is the result of three years of focused schoolwide work. During this time, teachers and leaders have developed, trialled and refined a set of approaches that have contributed to a significant increase in student outcomes.
The Toolkit brings these practices together for the first time into a single framework, ensuring all learners benefit from consistent and evidence informed expectations across the school. The Toolkit is based on the understanding that learning is a journey. Te Ara Whakatere, our navigational pathway, supports students to understand new learning and manage challenges using metacognitive strategies, including the 4Rs. These strategies work alongside the SOLO taxonomy, which helps students deepen their understanding and move from basic knowledge to more complex thinking.
Kaitiaki teachers play an important role in the Toolkit. Through academic mentoring, progress discussions and regular check ins, kaitiaki support students to understand their progress, set meaningful goals and take responsibility for their learning. This long term relationship ensures each learner receives consistent guidance and support.
Our OHS values remain central to the Toolkit. They guide the way students learn, interact with others and contribute to the school community, helping us maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Quality teaching sits at the foundation of the Toolkit. It aligns with the OHS Effective Teaching Profile, which outlines the relational and pedagogical practices that underpin strong learning. Teachers use approaches such as high expectation teaching, assessment for learning, explicit instruction and principles from the science of learning. These approaches, supported by strong learning relationships, help students understand their next steps and develop the skills needed to make progress.
The 2026 OHS Learning Toolkit brings these elements together into a clear and coherent approach that supports every learner. It provides shared structures, common language and consistent expectations that help students navigate their learning and work steadily toward their future goals. This Toolkit reflects three years of development and supports our continued focus on effective teaching and learning at Onehunga High School.
