Howick Primary Celebrate Becoming a Model School

Howick Primary have been empowering tamariki to grow, harvest, prepare and share fresh kai since they joined Garden to Table in 2020. They have developed a strong, integrated programme that has become a valued part of the school hapori (community).  

This year, they took the next step by becoming a Model School. As a Model School, they offer opportunities to showcase the programme to other schools, friends, and supporters of the Garden to Table Trust.  

To celebrate this milestone they hosted an Open Day to showcase their thriving Garden to Table programme and acknowledge those who have supported it along the way.

The event welcomed manuhiri (guests) from the school community, Howick Local Board members, volunteers, and representatives from other schools interested in the programme. Attendees observed the 11:30 am session, one of two held every Wednesday, to experience the programme in action. 

Tumuaki (Principal) Michael Earl opened the event, expressing gratitude to key contributors from the school and community who have helped the programme flourish. Enviro Teacher Beccy Long, a vital figure in establishing and advocating for Garden to Table at Howick, shared insights into the journey and highlighted the community's role in the programme's success. Garden to Table Regional Coordinator Candace Weir also delivered congratulations and acknowledgments before the class began their session. 

The kitchen group prepared three recipes featuring produce from their māra kai (garden), filling the hall with delightful aromas. Meanwhile, the garden group got stuck in planting seedlings, weeding, and managing wairākau (compost). Guests had the opportunity to interact with students and participants, gaining a firsthand understanding of the programme’s impact. 

As with every Garden to Table session, it ended with everyone sitting together to share kai. Allowing guests to taste the delicious spread the tamariki had prepared and also experience the sense of hapori (community) that defines the Garden to Table programme at Howick Primary School. 

Howick Local Board Member Adele White who attended the event said “It was great to see the pupils at work; and to enjoy the enthusiasm of all involved with making Garden to Table happen. A wonderful programme – beautifully implemented and ultimately assisting families at a time when providing food is pretty tough.” 

We are thrilled to welcome Howick Primary to the Garden to Table Model School community! As a new Model School, Howick Primary will play an important role in sharing their passion for gardening and cooking with other schools while continuing to grow their own vibrant programme. We are excited to see the impact they will make and look forward to supporting their journey. Nau mai haere mai, Howick Primary!