Seeing Strengths Shine Beyond the Classroom

Sometimes it’s outside the classroom that students shine the brightest. That was clear at the West Auckland All Abilities Sports Day, a collaborative event hosted by Sport Waitākere (now Tuia Waitākere), Halberg and Green Bay High School, where tamariki were given the opportunity to discover new strengths in a fun, inclusive environment.

Now in its second year, the event supports primary and intermediate-aged young people with additional support needs, disabilities or impairments, and those disengaged from school or sport. Students rotated through a range of accessible and engaging activities including Fit Hop Dance, Sense Rugby, Girl Skate, Hungerball, Tristar Gymnastics and Adapted Cricket, with each session designed to encourage confidence and enjoyment.

For teachers, the day offered a powerful reminder of the strengths their students carry beyond the classroom.

“I was able to see our students demonstrating skills that we didn’t know about,” says Susan Snowball, Learning Support Coordinator at Henderson Intermediate School. “A student who struggles to focus in the classroom was so thrilled to show us how she could skateboard and socialise with other students from different schools.

“We loved the dancing and were surprised to find that all our students got involved in that and loved it. Hopefully we can bring more students next year.”

The All Abilities Sports Day was originally suggested by New Lynn Primary School, who were seeking an interschool opportunity for their ORS-funded students – a group who don’t often get the chance to participate in organised sport. This aligned with consultation with Halberg whānau, which highlighted the limited time parents and teachers have to identify clubs and coaches able to support diverse needs. The event creates a space where young people, parents and teachers can connect directly with locally based, inclusive providers and activity deliverers.

“This event shows what can happen when we design sport with inclusion at the centre,” says Rachael Batters, Healthy Active Learning Advisor from Sport Waitākere. “By bringing schools, whānau and specialist providers together, we’re not only creating a great day for young people, but also helping build confidence, understanding and pathways into future participation.”

Halberg Foundation, the original organiser, played a key role by connecting sports organisations and providing guidance on accessibility for deliverers. Green Bay High School generously opened its facilities and supported the day with 15 student volunteers, all of whom completed Halberg Inclusion Training to deepen their understanding of inclusion in school, physical activity and sport.

The day began with Fit Hop Dance, where 54 students from 16 schools laughed and moved together before heading into the main sessions. Sense Rugby and Auckland Cricket delivered obstacle courses and games, Girls Skate NZ introduced balance and new skills, Tristar Gymnastics supported strength and coordination, and Hungerball encouraged teamwork through fun arena games. Sport Waitākere’s Play Team also added creative elements, including drawing, lego and imaginative play.

Supported through partnership between Sport Waitākere, Halberg Foundation and Sport NZ’s Fast Fund, Rachael says the event is helping ensure more tamariki and rangatahi can experience the joy, confidence and connection that comes from being active.

“With increased numbers and strong engagement again this year, the West Auckland All Abilities Sports Day continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration and inclusive design.  We can’t wait for the next event,” concludes Rachael.