Belonging begins here.
This is more than a learning resource. It’s a call to connection. A call to belonging. A reminder that together, we shape the profession, the stories we tell, and the futures we create. As you begin, bring your full self. The wall is not complete without you.
Shaping our future together.
This resource is an invitation to every kaiako in Aotearoa New Zealand to see themselves as part of a shared profession, one that is woven from diverse cultural threads, grounded in values, and united by purpose.
What you’ll learn
Story and significance
Discover the purpose and story of the Wall of Identity.
Whakapapa and professional identity
Reflect on your whakapapa, identity, and professional role.
Foundations for education today
Understand the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its ongoing relevance in education.
Cultural capability in action
Build insight into cultural capability and what it looks like in practice.
Leading with equity and integrity
Strengthen your commitment to equity, integrity, and inclusive teaching.
Our co-authors and cultural experts
This resource has been shaped by cultural experts Vasa Fia Collins, Diversity & Inclusion Specialist, and Whare Isaac-Sharland, Mātauranga Māori Practitioner. Their knowledge, lived experience, and commitment to Te Tiriti-honouring practice bring authentic insight to the stories, values, and histories woven through Ngā Pātū o te Whare | Wall of Identity, ensuring each module is reflective, respectful, and connected to the diverse realities of teaching in Aotearoa.
Whare Isaac-Sharland, Mātauranga Māori Practitioner
"Te whakapiringa o te tangata, te whakairinga o te kupu” – koina te kupu whakarite mo te marae, anō nei ‘Ngā Pātū o te Whare’ i whakatauirahia he momo marae mo ngā tāngata katoa o te motu".
"I have been greatly honoured to have been part of the process to create supporting understanding surrounding ‘The Wall of Identity’. I liken it to our kupu whakarite. a simile that recognises that the ‘Wall’ like the marae holds space for the many and diverse voices of Aotearoa".
Vasa Fia Collins, Diversity & Inclusion Specialist
"It has been a profound honour to help craft the Wall of Identity, a narrative that anchors our profession in the rich bicultural history and voyaging legacy of Aotearoa. This work reminds us that, like the Moana, our identities connect, rather than divide us. May it inspire every kaiako to stand proudly in who they are, where they come from and the shared future we are shaping together. Ia manuia".
What teachers are saying
“This resource helped me reconnect with my own story and see how it shapes the way I teach."
“Exploring my whakapapa alongside my professional role gave me a deeper sense of purpose."
“I now feel more confident weaving cultural capability into my teaching."
“It gave me space to reflect and reminded me why I chose this path."
“The Wall of Identity is a powerful reminder that we all contribute to the bigger picture."
