ANZAC Learning and Field of Remembrance

In hub 3 we spent Term One developing our critical literacy skills while we explored a range of topics, including the First World War.

While all learners were immersed in learning how to research effectively, different literacy groups were using these skills to explore different topics.

One of these topics was looking in depth at the First World War, and the implications it had for the various cultures involved. The Mawhera literacy group looked at the Maori Pioneer Battalion, the different perspectives of Maori towards the war, and how different cultures at the time all came together to fight under the flag of a relatively young country - New Zealand.

We decided a great way to pay respect to the ANZAC soldiers,who fought and died in the war in Gallipoli, would be to create a 'Field of Remembrance'. A local trust dedicated to these fields supported us by sending out all the kits, and we built the crosses needed.

We wrote letters to the passed soldiers, thanking and showing respect for the service they gave to this country. We attached these to the cross with the soldiers name on it, and set up our Field of Remembrance in a place of Tapu - a sacred place for the crosses to rest.


Many learners from Hub 3 also attended the St Heliers memorial service on ANZAC Day, 25th April. Some of us went with their local scouts or cub groups. Those of us who went with Mr Lunn and Mr Baker laid a custom-made wreath on the Memorial chair to show our respect.

It was a great day of learning for all involved, including the teachers, and we all gained a new respect for the soldiers and citizens of New Zealand who were involved in the First World War.