Today was our final day in Hamilton. We split up into three different groups and traveled to area schools: Berkley Middle School, Newstead Country School, and Silverdale Normal School. There we had opportunities to visit and interact with administrators, teachers, and students. It is interesting to note that all the schools had a set morning tea time that was observed by all students and teachers. Another interesting thing to note is that shoes are optional here; even in the schools. We reconvened for lunch at the university where we shared our experiences.
After lunch, we took part in a poroporoaki which is a Maori farewell ceremony. Each person expressed their gratitude for the time we shared together. The ceremony ended with an encore performance of "Oklahoma" and the presentation of a traditional monetary gift. Additional gifts representing Oklahoma were presented to our gracious hosts. Later that evening a BBQ dinner was held in our honor and final farewells were exchanged.
Next up...Waitomo Caves and Rotorua.
Shoes are optional?!? Don't they know about OSHA? :-)
ReplyDeleteDid you observe classes at the school? If so, what grade levels &/0r subjects?
The shoe thing is definitely different. Some of the kids don't even wear the shoes to school. I was in a couple of lower elementary grades. The system is a little different over here, so I am not sure exactly the grade level. I believe they may have been 2nd and 3rd grade. We are in the schools of Tauranga beginning Wednesday.
DeleteTea is such a civilized tradition, and it would probably help our stress level as well.
ReplyDeleteTea is a wonderful tradition. I would love to institute it back home.
ReplyDelete