Research-arama

We've had a great time working with Devon Intermediate students who visited Puke Ariki recently for a specialised research programme. Based in the Taranaki Research Centre, the students used their skills of research, investigation and analysis to discover more about survival on Mount Taranaki.

Our educators can develop research programmes around your term topic or focus areas in 2012. The 2012 research topic is the early settlement of New Plymouth, but we welcome your suggestions for alternative focus areas. Contact us to discuss further.

2012 Programme

The 2012 LEOTC programme is live on the Puke Ariki website! A copy was sent to all Taranaki schools this week, and emailed to teachers on our e-database. (Don't have a copy? Email us and we'll send you one!)

The programme details all the exciting programmes available next year at Puke Ariki and Aotea Utanganui - Museum of South Taranaki, and we're already taking bookings from schools for 2012. (You can also book a class visit online - it's quick and easy, we promise!).

Hands-on activities: students get up close and personal with a garden snail during a recent 'Slimy & Legless' programme.

Teachers - don't forget to check out our supporting programmes - including museum objects for loan to schools, educator visits to school camps, special Puke Ariki teacher orientations, and professional development opportunities.

2012 programme - hot off the press

We're happy to announce that our 2012 programme will be sent to all Taranaki schools this week. What do you think of the front cover?

We'll also email the programme to teachers on our e-database. If you'd like to receive a copy in your inbox, please contact us with your details.

The programme will also be available to view on the Puke Ariki website.

Do you know any legends?

We're sure you have some true legends amongst your students. The Puke Ariki summer reading programme is about to begin, and we're looking for kids to take part in the 2011 programme 'Be a Legend'.

The programme is free for primary aged children (5-10 years), encouraging them to keep reading over the school holidays. Participants visit their local library for informal 'check-ins' where they chat about the books they're reading, fun activities and prizes.

Do you know students who would enjoy this programme? Contact the enthusiastic children's librarians at Puke Ariki, Bell Block, Waitara, Inglewood, Oakura or Urenui libraries for more details. Registrations are open now until Sunday 4 December - places are limited, so get in quick!

Congratulations, Keri!

Our very own Puke Ariki Educator Keri Elvin has been recognised for her teaching prowess with an Exceptional Adult Educator Award from ACE (Adult Community Education) Taranaki.

Keri teaches Te Reo Maori at ACE Taranaki and was nominated for the award by two of her pupils. She says receiving the award was amazing as it was the first time she had won anything for just doing what she loves to do and it has given her a warm fuzzy feeling all over!

Nice work, Keri - we're proud of you!

Puke Ariki Advent Calendar

What does Christmas mean to you? We want to know!

Each Christmas Puke Ariki creates a walking advent calendar. This year we are seeking involvement from local schools to creatively share what Christmas means to them. The result will be an A1 (59cm x 59 cm), 2 dimensional art work on public display in the library at Puke Ariki during the Christmas period.

For more information please email Clare O'Connell on oconnellc@npdc.govt.nz. Displays should be delivered to the library by 1 December.