Tamariki Tipu is a partnership between Te Awamutu Bible Chapel (TABC) and Te Awamutu Primary School (TAPS) within the 24-7 YouthWork Network (24-7YW). This presence-based model is designed to see all children thrive.
Two Youth Workers are employed for 10 hours each of paid work on average per week during the school terms. This is supported by at least five volunteer hours each week.
Our youth workers are doing an amazing job as role-models and Christ’s ambassadors in school. In 2025 Mr. L worked closely with two boys. Taking them out of class to spend time one-on-one, Mr L supported them to engage with and complete schoolwork and they talked together. As a relationship-based model, the boys knew that they had someone in their corner; someone available several times per week to support them. The gaps in their reading and maths gradually filled, and they knew that after they had completed their hour of work with Mr. L he would balance it with an hour of sports and games. The classroom teachers who held responsibility for these boys noticed a lighter load and less distraction for the whole class. The boys’ caregivers were pleased and supportive of the input their sons were receiving at school. The Deputy Principal revealed that Mr. L’s input was directly linked with these boys remaining at school last year rather than being stood down.
This year Whaea Aimee and Mr. L. are supporting and equipping student leaders with a weekly leadership programme. Outside the classroom, using sports and games as a vehicle to build relationships with a range of students, they focus on skills such as taking turns, sportsmanship and resilience.
Church volunteers are reading with children, supervising swimming, supporting staff, manning the sick bay, maintaining bikes, building projects around school and making crafts with kids at lunchtime.
The relationships being built between church and school are leading to connections and openness. TAPS has used a church building for their Year 6 graduation and children’s ministry leaders are seeing students from school turn up on Sundays. A Christian holiday programme is being planned for community children in July.
Lots has happened in a short time, and we are thankful to God and to everyone who has been involved so far. A donation from Hugo Charitable Trust meant that we could hit the ground running last year but to be sustainable we need more regular financial support. Can you be a monthly supporter? All donations made via TABC are eligible for a donation refund.
Te Awamutu Bible Chapel
01-0439-0002731-00
Reference: TT