Learner Dispositions
Our learner dispositions, known as THRIVE – Teamwork, Heart & Respect, Resilience, Investigator, Voice and Empowered Learner – are woven through every aspect of Junior College life.
They reflect our values in action and help students develop the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to thrive during the adolescent years and beyond.
Students are encouraged to:
- Collaborate with others,
- Show empathy and respect,
- Approach challenges with resilience,
- Think critically and investigate new ideas,
- Communicate with confidence and integrity, and
- Take ownership of their learning and personal growth.
By strengthening these dispositions across all areas of school life, we empower our learners to become confident, capable, and connected young people who are ready to contribute positively to their communities and embrace future opportunities.
Our House System – Whānau groups
Our whānau system is at the heart of life at Chapel Downs Junior College.
It creates opportunities for students to build meaningful relationships, develop leadership, celebrate success and experience a strong sense of belonging.
Every student (and staff member) becomes part of one of our four whānau when they join Chapel Downs, creating connections that last throughout their time with us.
Each whānau is named after a native tree of Aotearoa New Zealand. These trees represent strength, resilience, growth and deep roots within the land, reflecting the qualities we encourage in our students as they grow into confident young people.
Throughout the year, students earn whānau points by demonstrating our school values, actioning our dispositions, contributing positively to learning and participating in school life. Friendly competitions, sporting events, cultural celebrations and more, provide opportunities for every student to contribute to their whānau.
Student leaders are selected each year as whānau captains. They encourage participation, foster house spirit and model the values of our school community.
Together, our whānau system builds belonging, celebrates achievement and reminds us that we achieve more when we grow, learn and lead together.
Kauri
Stand tall with strength and integrity
The mighty kauri is one of Aotearoa’s most enduring trees. It symbolises resilience, courage and standing strong through challenges.
We are represented by the colour green.
He toa takitini: My success is not mine alone, but the strength of many.
Kōwhai
Inspire hope, kindness and new beginnings
One of the first trees to flower each spring, the kōwhai represents renewal, optimism and the promise of growth.
We are represented by the colour yellow.
Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai: Nurture the seed and it will blossom
Rimu
Grow with patience, determination and perseverance
The rimu is a long-living native tree that reminds us that lasting success comes through steady effort, resilience and commitment.
We are represented by the colour red.
Kōtahi te kākano, he nui ngā hua o te rākau: A tree comes from one see, but bears many fruit.
Tōtara
Lead with confidence and serve others
The tōtara is renowned for its strength and durability. It represents leadership, service and leaving a positive legacy.
We are represented by the colour blue.
Mā mua ka kite a muri; mā muri ka ora a mua: Those who lead give sight to those who follow; those who follow give life to those who lead.
