275Times October 2016

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2 Tranzformers brings change through boxing Kia ora, my name is Robert MacFarlane. I’m a social worker for ME Family Services and I’m currently working in Viscount Learning Community, Māngere. My role at the school is to influence the learning and wellbeing of the children in our care. Earlier this year, with the support of principal Keith Gayford, and expert assistance from two coaches at SuperCity boxing gym in Manukau, we set up the ’Tranzformers’ Boxing Programme to help students who face extra challenges to their learning. During the programme, Coach Rob and Coach Cain focussed on teaching the values of “attitude, application and attendance” to help the students transform their learning and behaviour. On September 22, we held a boxing exhibition in the Viscount School Hall, which gave boys from Years 7 and 8 an opportunity to spar in the ring. The purpose of this event was not only for the students to demonstrate their discipline, self-control and boxing skills, it was also an opportunity to recognise their achievements in the classroom, with certificates acknowledging how much progress they’d made. Parents, staff and selected classes attended the event to show their support for the students taking part. One of the fathers who came to the exhibition said that his son was now showing a lot of restraint with his anger at home. Feedback from teachers also indicated subtle but significant changes in the students who took part in the programme. As for the students themselves, most rated the experience as life changing in some respect. Above: Year 7 & 8 boys from Viscount Learning Community take part in a boxing exhibition at the end of the Tranzformers boxing programme. It was a privilege to have Viscount Learning Community adopt the Tranzformers boxing programme as another way to support the wellbeing of its children and to help them grow into effective learners. Getting licensed together Alexandria (21), from Māngere, recently attended the Behind the Wheel Learners Licence course held at the Māngere East Community Centre. She was a bit nervous to begin with. “I wasn’t sure what to expect really, but I was determined to get my licence," she says. “The class was really helpful and there were lots of other people learning just like me." After completing the two-week programme Alexandria was prepared for the test. She acknowledges the important role her whānau played in supporting her through to getting her licence. “The encouragement and support I got from my family really helped me," she says. “My dad drove me to the course and even sat in on the lessons too - it all added to my confidence”. The Behind the Wheel workshops and Pledge recognise the influence and importance of whānau support for those who are on their licensing journey, and how that support can help them get all the way through to their full licence. It can also be a motivator for others in the family who might be thinking of getting their licence too. “From seeing me do this [Behind the Wheel] course, my dad, brother, niece and sister-in-law are now all keen to get their next licences too.” Alexandria says, “It’s now a bit of fun - we can all test each other and keep each other motivated.” If you know a young person thinking about getting their licence, offering your support and encouragement to get there can make all the difference! You can start by joining a Pledge team with them to get FREE resources and access to awesome workshops. Above: Alexandria says support and encouragement from her family helped her get her learner licence. Visit www.behindthewheel.nz and register today. To find out more about workshops happening in Māngere, follow us on Facebook @behindthewheelmangere. ADVERTORIAL
Jason helps Sela get her groove back "Sela seems to lead an ordinary dull life – at least that’s what she thinks when comparing it to other kids at her school. She hasn’t even been to Rainbow’s End!" says Jason Manumua, director of How Sela Got Her Groove Back, a new play produced by Good Seeds Trust. "To be able to get to Rainbows End would mean that she’d finally be like the other kids – and maybe life wouldn’t suck as much," he says. "This is how Sela's journey to Rainbows End begins, but she will come to know it’s the journey not the destination that really matters.” Jason is a graduate of the On-Screen Acting course at South Seas Film & Television school, as well as a graduate of the The Actors' Programme. A writer/director, Jason currently works with his local South Auckland OSCAR organisation, devising and producing community holiday kids shows. After forming the Tongan Creatives Collective in 2012, he co-wrote, acted and directed in two seasons of The Tongan Morris Men, the group's most popular production. In 2015, the Tongan Creatives Collective committed to supporting the Mahina Arts Festival in Tonga; presenting work, creative workshops and cultural development. Jason has worked for Good Seed Trust for nearly two years and is a talented director and producer, as well as an actor. He performed in the recent production of Macbeth at the Māngere Arts Centre, Above: Jason Manumua, director of How Sela Got Her Groove Back, a new play for Good Seed Trust. and he’s often found at the arts centre either directing or in character. He is described as a dedicated and local staff member with a heart of gold - for the community and the children. Good Seed Trust run OSCAR services and two holiday programmes in Māngere. How Sela Got Her Groove Back is the second production that Good Seed Trust have staged, involving children and staff from their holiday programme. The children have no previous training in theatre or dance and singing, and all rehearsals are done at the Māngere Arts Centre during holiday programme hours. The children still enjoy their normal programme and excursions as well. Last year’s production, Isitolo and the Magic Paint Brush, was a big hit, with 90 children and 10 staff in the cast. Both shows sold out, so this year's production will have four sessions to cater for the high demand. Community and other after school and holiday programmes are welcome to attend the show at the Māngere Arts Centre on 5 and 6 <strong>October</strong>. The cost is $5 for adults and $2 for and children under 12yrs. Ph: 2751065 or 2751069 3 Below: Cast members rehearse for How Sela Got Her Groove Back 5-6 OCT<strong>2016</strong> KIDS SCHOOL HOLIDAY SHOW Mon - 12pm Matinee & 7pm Tues - 12pm Matinee & 7pm nga tohu o uenuku INFO: 'N'N'N.E\JENTFIND/1.CO.NZ
Page 1: EDITION #24 OCTOBER 2016 275 times
Page 5 and 6: 5 Saluting the Black Friars By Gabr
Page 7 and 8: Upskilling & fixing faults By Robyn

275Times October 2016

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