Mahi Tahi: Placing trust at the centre of lesson observation and post lesson observation conversation

Long Bay College places a strong emphasis on effective change leadership and trust to foster a responsive and innovative teaching environment. Founded in 1975 into what was then a rural area, the College now serves approximately 1,800 students in a suburban setting. By embracing the autonomy granted by New Zealand’s 1989 Tomorrow’s Schools reform, the school has cultivated a dynamic approach to education. In 2019, the school’s Board of Trustees and staff committed to continuous professional development, leading to the creation of the “Tino Akoranga” approach to teaching and learning. This approach centres on personalised, research-informed education, cultural responsiveness, and cognitive science considerations, all within a framework that prioritises professional learning. To support exceptional teaching and learning, Long Bay College emphasises trust-based classroom observations and collaborative post observation conversations under the “Mahi Tahi” initiative. This initiative seeks to normalise peer observations and discussions, enhancing teaching practices on a foundation of trust, professional safety and collaboration.