Student Support within our School
At Kaikorai Valley College (KVC), the well-being and success of every student is at the heart of all we do. We are proud of our inclusive, supportive culture, guided by the values of PRIDE — Participation, Respect, Inquiry, Diversity and Environment. Our approach to student support ensures that every learner has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially and personally.
Pastoral Care / Tiaki Ākonga
Pastoral care is a top priority at KVC. We believe that a happy learner is a successful learner. Our students are supported by a dedicated pastoral team that includes the Principal, Deputy Principal, Assistant Principals, Deans, Careers Advisor, Learning Support Coordinator and Guidance Counsellor.
Younger students in Years 7 and 8 are cared for by their homeroom teacher, with additional support from Year 13 Peer Support Leaders who help them settle into life at KVC. Students in Years 9–13 are placed in whānau groups led by a whānau teacher, ensuring ongoing, personalised support throughout their time at the college.
Our commitment to positive relationships underpins all learning. We take a strong stand against bullying and promote a culture of respect, where students and staff look out for one another.
Whānau Groups
Each student at KVC belongs to a whānau group, which meets regularly each week. Years 9–13 groups are connected to the House system and include students from across year levels, fostering cross-age relationships and leadership. Year 7 and 8 students form their whānau group with their homeroom teacher.
Whānau teachers play a key role in guiding and mentoring students, supporting their well-being, academic progress and personal development. Regular one-on-one conferencing helps students take ownership of their learning and well-being, with opportunities for parents and caregivers to stay engaged in this journey.
House System
Our House system builds school spirit, encourages participation and fosters a sense of belonging across all year levels. The four Houses — Kōwhai, Mataī, Rātā and Tōtara — offer opportunities for friendly competition in sporting, cultural, academic and community events.
Students earn points for their House through activities and by demonstrating the PRIDE values, contributing to the awarding of the coveted PRIDE Cup each term and the House shield at the end of the year.
Through the House system, students develop leadership skills, strengthen school connections and celebrate achievements together.
A Culture of Care and Success
KVC has a strong record of catering for the needs of all students — guided by our mantra of "Opportunity and Success for ALL." We are proud of our family atmosphere where students and staff look out for each other and where individual strengths and needs are recognised and supported.
We actively encourage partnership with whānau and offer many ways for families to engage with the college, including learning reports, parent portals, newsletters, events and direct communication with teachers.
At Kaikorai Valley College, every student matters. We are committed to providing an environment where they feel safe, valued and empowered to succeed.
Learning Support at KVC
At Kaikorai Valley College, Learning Support is something we take seriously — but we always aim to make it positive and engaging! Our goal is to help every student find success in their learning journey and feel proud of their progress.
We have extensive experience supporting students with a wide range of learning needs, abilities, and physical challenges. And if we encounter something new — we make it our mission to learn and adapt.
Our Learning Support Department is dedicated to providing targeted, practical support so that every student can confidently access the New Zealand Curriculum. We do this through:
General and tailored teacher aide support in mainstream classrooms, ensuring students are engaged and included in everyday learning.
Ongoing professional development for staff, building their skills and strategies to meet the diverse learning needs within their classes.
Gathering and sharing key information about individual learning needs — such as dyslexia, ADHD, and other specific learning profiles — so that teachers can adapt and personalise their approach.
Providing special assessment conditions where needed, including reader-writer support and other accommodations to ensure fair access to achievement opportunities.
Working in partnership with a wide range of external services and experts — such as Resource Teachers of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) — to provide specialist support when required.
At KVC, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to finding the right path for each individual.
Careers
Margaret Beagley mabeagley@kvc.school.nz
Check out the Careerwise website: https://kvc.careerwise.school/
Guidance and Counselling
Everyone experiences difficult feelings or situations at times. It isn’t always easy to deal with these alone. Our Guidance Counsellor offers a safe, confidential space for students to talk, reflect, and find support.
Students may seek counselling for many reasons, including feeling down, family issues, school stress, anxiety, bullying, relationships, grief, trauma, identity questions, or simply when something doesn’t feel right. Sometimes they come to set goals or explore new ways of handling challenges.
Counselling is led by the student — they decide what they want to share and how long they wish to attend. Sessions focus on listening without judgement, building understanding, and exploring options. Often just being heard can make a difference.
Appointments can be made by filling out a referral slip outside the Counsellor’s office, asking a teacher or Dean, or having a parent/caregiver get in touch. Parents and whānau are also welcome to contact the Counsellor directly with concerns.
The Counsellor is available Monday to Thursday.