ABSTRACT

An inclusive educational environment is holistic. The education, health, justice, and wellbeing statistics for children from indigenous communities are significantly worse than for many other population groups, yet Kaupapa Maori Education, by taking an holistic approach to education, has successfully turned these statistics on their heads. All children and young people, therefore, need the skills and the environment to manage and grow through crisis and trauma. Changes in education, however, inevitably carry both a personal and financial cost. Some staff in educational environments or entering these professions may find challenging the focus on developing positive relationships with children and young people. Education environments are uniquely placed to provide the support and sense of belonging needed to promote the resilience of our next generation of citizens.