Life Beyond School

Did you graduate between 2015 and 2019? One of our teachers at Western Springs College Ngā Puna o Waiōrea (WSCW), Ben Hinton, is undertaking an inquiry for Te Kāhui Ako o Waitematā which seeks to find out more about our alumni’s transition to life beyond secondary school. 

Who are you and what is Te Kāhui Ako o Waitematā?

My name is Ben Hinton, I’m a Social Studies and English Language teacher at WSCW and am also involved with Te Kāhui Ako o Waitematā. The Kāhui Ako evolved from a group of Western Bays schools which decided to establish a learning network to facilitate better student outcomes for their students.Te Kāhui Ako o Waitematā now consists of 11 local primary and intermediate schools and Western Springs College, and operates under the whakataukī: Mā te hoe ngātahi ka ū ō tātou waka ki Te Matā / Through collaboration we reach our destination.

Tell us more about your inquiry…

Basically we want to find out more about our alumni’s transition from school. We are particularly interested in the continuity of further study and the impact of Gap years and other breaks in the study pathway on tertiary achievement. We are also interested in finding out the types of employment our alumni are involved in and are keen to hear any feedback and advice they have for our school. Once we crunch the data, we want to ensure our school support systems are suited to our students’ needs.

Is there any way WSCW alumni can assist with this inquiry?

There is actually! In order to carry out the inquiry, I’m seeking information from WSC alumni about their post secondary school life. Alumni can access the survey (5 mins approx) with this link. Alternatively, the survey link will be emailed to alumni, participation is entirely optional, but would be greatly appreciated.