Our Kaupapa
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand promotes excellence in drama education nationwide by offering continuing education and fostering a community of practice. We empower Drama Educators by giving voice to your concerns through advocacy, providing excellent teaching resources, keeping you informed of all the latest developments in Drama Education, and bring you together for professional development and conferences. Our kaupapa is Auaha | Create, Whakaari | Communicate, Whakaako | Educate.
Auaha | Create
Resources
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand supports all sectors with a wide range of resources and support for educators in drama education. Our resources are created by kaiako for kaiako. By offering comprehensive and innovative educational resources, we assist educators in fostering a dynamic learning environment where students can develop their artistic skills and explore the world of theatre and performance. We also offer resources that focus on you and support your mahi. Most resources are free to members.
Above are some of our resources available.
Exams
We offer practice exams for kaiako to use within their kura. These have been written by experienced kaiako developed to the specification of the current year. There is also a range of tools, units, and activities available in our Resource Library. Practice exams are available to members only.
Peer Reviewed Journals
Over the years our academic community has created a suite of peer-reviewed journals. Peer-reviewed journals are a valuable resource for our whakaari drama community. You can find some of our journals at Canterbury University Library.
Whakaari | Communicate
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand uses a variety of channels to engage with our members and the wider drama education community. These include direct email, newsletters, social media, and the official website. Important announcements, upcoming events, professional development opportunities, and industry news are regularly shared through these channels.
Advocacy
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand advocates for the recognition and value of drama education in New Zealand. Through various initiatives, workshops, and resources, we promote the benefits of Drama in fostering creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and empathy among students. By engaging with policymakers, educators, and the public, we strive to ensure that drama remains an integral part of the education system. Here is just one of the many useful advocacy resources we offer.
Dramatic
Dramatic is a bi-monthly publication distributed to all members. You can find the latest issue and all previous issues on this site. It serves as a vital source of information for updates, news, and opportunities to engage. Members can stay informed about upcoming events, workshops, and resources. Dramatic is a valuable tool for connecting members, sharing insights, and fostering community among drama practitioners across New Zealand.
Circle Platform
Our Circle Community Platform is a versatile online space that facilitates meaningful discussions among users. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, Circle Platform enables participants to converse on various topics organised and constructively. Our moderator manages discussions effectively, ensuring a positive and inclusive environment for all participants. Our exclusive platform is open to members only.
International Relations
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand has developed strong partnerships with international organisations such IDEA (International Drama Education Association) and Drama Australia to enhance the drama education sector globally. Collaborating internationally allows the exchange of best practices, resources, and ideas that benefit drama educators, practitioners, and students. These partnerships help foster a sense of community and shared purpose among drama practitioners worldwide, ultimately contributing to the international growth and development of the art form.
Industry Partners
Industry partners play a crucial role in the success of Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand. These partnerships benefit our organisation and contribute to the growth and development of the drama community in New Zealand. We are dedicated to fostering strong relationships with industry partners to ensure continued support and mutual success.
Whakaako | Educate
Whakaari Aotearoa Drama New Zealand provides access to current research, innovative teaching practices, resources, and networking opportunities. From sharing best practices to collaborating on new ideas, we empower members to continually evolve and improve their practice, benefiting the students they serve.
Professional Learning and Development
Professional learning and development are crucial components of any drama practitioner's career. Continuous learning allows individuals to expand their expertise, stay current with emerging trends and technologies, and enhance their skills. Drama professionals can grow personally and artistically by participating in workshops, attending conferences, collaborating with peers, and seeking out new experiences. This ongoing commitment to learning benefits the individual and enriches the broader drama education community by fostering innovation and excellence in practice.
Drama and Literacy
Drama is a powerful tool for improving literacy skills in students of all ages. Students can develop their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking abilities by engaging with dramatic texts, whether through reading plays or participating in theatre activities. Drama encourages students to actively engage with the text, bringing characters and stories to life through performance. Integrating drama into literacy education can enhance literacy competencies and inspire a lifelong love of reading and the performing arts.
Conferences
Conferences play a vital role in the professional development of drama educators and practitioners, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and skills enhancement. These events offer opportunities to attend workshops, engage in discussions, and discover new techniques and approaches to enhance teaching practices. Conferences are valuable forums for educators to stay current in their field, exchange ideas, and foster a sense of community within the drama education landscape.
