Our Year 11–13 Māori students are reconnecting with Pūhoro mentors to excel in STEMM Pūhoro STEMM Mentoring Returns to OHS

Onehunga High School is pleased to continue its partnership with the Pūhoro STEMM Academy for 2026 . Having been involved with the programme since 2022, the school values this ongoing collaboration and the positive impact it has on our Māori students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Mātauranga (STEMM).

The weekly mentoring sessions, which commenced for the year on 11 February, have proven highly beneficial for our Year 11, 12, and 13 students. These sessions provide consistent academic support, but the primary strength of the programme lies in the enduring relationships formed between our rangatahi and the Kaihautū (mentors). Having these reliable role models on-site each week provides students with a strong sense of guidance and encouragement as they navigate their educational journey.

The value of these connections is evident in the increased confidence of our students. The mentoring environment encourages them to set high expectations for their NCEA achievements and helps them visualise clear pathways into tertiary education and future careers. By fostering these "tuakana-teina" (mentor-mentee) bonds, Pūhoro provides a framework where students feel supported to excel in challenging subjects and explore high-value career opportunities.

The first session of the year on 11 February was a productive start, and we have included several photos of our senior students working alongside their mentors. These images capture the focused and collaborative atmosphere that defines the Pūhoro experience at Onehunga High School. We look forward to another year of seeing our students benefit from this strong support network and the opportunities it creates for their future.