Student Support within Our School

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.

The Brathwaite Centre provides a supported learning environment for students who require additional learning support through ORS funding. It is an integral and valued part of Kaikorai Valley College, helping ensure that all students experience success and belonging within our school community.

The Centre offers tailored learning support both within the Centre itself and in mainstream classes. Students have access to specialist teachers and teacher aides, with learning opportunities delivered through small group and individual programmes. The Brathwaite Centre operates in line with the wider values and policies of Kaikorai Valley College, guided by our philosophy of "Opportunity and Success for All."

We foster a nurturing environment where students feel safe, confident, and valued. Diversity is celebrated, and we actively promote empathy, care, and respect across the school.

Each student has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), developed in close consultation with the student, their parents or caregivers, classroom teachers, Ministry of Education specialists, and external agencies. Together, we set clear and meaningful goals that empower each student to progress in their learning and personal development.

Learning pathways at the Brathwaite Centre are flexible and responsive to individual needs. Some students are fully integrated into mainstream classes, while others access a combination of Centre-based and mainstream learning. For those transitioning to work or community programmes, supported pathways are provided. Some students engage in full-time learning within the Centre to best meet their needs.

Kaikorai Valley College is deeply committed to inclusive education. The Brathwaite Centre plays a key role in ensuring that all students — regardless of learning needs — can thrive in an environment that recognises their strengths and fosters their potential.

At Kaikorai Valley College, we are committed to helping students explore their future pathways and develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive beyond school.

Our dedicated Careers Department provides personalised support and guidance in career planning, course selection, tertiary entry, work placements, and transition to employment or further study. All students have access to a wide range of services, including advice on subject choices, STAR courses, Gateway work placements, and opportunities for work experience.

Students are supported to explore their personal strengths, interests, and values, helping them identify a broad range of potential career options. We encourage them to be adaptable and to develop transferable skills that will serve them across many different environments and industries.

Career planning at KVC is flexible and responsive to individual needs. Wherever possible, we tailor school courses, work exploration, and career pathways to support each student’s goals. Parents and whānau are encouraged to be actively involved in this process, helping to ensure strong connections between school, home, and future aspirations.

Our Careers Department maintains close relationships with a wide range of local employers. Many of our students move directly into employment or apprenticeships through these connections. Up-to-date information on tertiary entry, scholarships, and employment opportunities is provided throughout the year, with regular liaison visits from universities, polytechnics, and industry partners.

We have our own dedicated careers website "Careerwise" which gives students and their whanau a resource to explore upcoming career and transition events, as well as access information and links to other helpful career resources. 

For further information or personalised advice, please contact our Careers Advisor, Margaret Beagley:

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.