First encounters – A Mantle of the Expert exploration of New Zealand history

Whakarongo Tauranga from Knighton School in Hamilton has generously offered to share this account of some recent work in her classroom. Download the full file below.

During 2019, Whakarongo has led a team of 10 committed folk at Knighton school to explore how dramatic inquiry, including Mantle of the Expert, can be used to teach New Zealand history. The group has used Tamsin Hanly’s Critical Histories of Aotearoa and I had the privilege of supporting them in my role as a Ministry-accredited PLD provider. It’s been a wonderful year of what feels like really significant mahi – and we’re looking forward to more in 2020.

I particularly appreciate how this planning encourages students to explore multiple perspectives on the first encounters between Māori and Cook. It’s great to have the children’s voice included in this account too. Thanks so much Whakarongo!

Please acknowledge Whakarongo as the original author of this planning if you make use of it in future. Also, I’m sure she would welcome any comments or feedback so feel free to add those below.