Apply now for Awards for Gifted Learners 2023
When he was nine, Jarom Hauwai-Sauer (Ngāti Pahauwera, Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāpuhi) spent nights learning about robotics at Waikato University. Then he set up his own technology business, AJC Tech, doing everything from coding and creating a website to business planning and stock maintenance and distribution of AirBuds for gamers, and much more.
With his mother Adele, they set up a Young Entrepreneurs’ Programme for 8-16 year old tamariki, to encourage them to pursue their passion and learn how to set up their own businesses.
Jarom says the award money he received from the Awards for Gifted Learners helped him to pursue his passion for STEM.
"In STEM, Jarom has often been the only Māori kid in the room, and I think people sometimes feel a bit whakamā / shy to try because they think they are not good at maths. You don't have to be. Just be you,” Adele says.
How to apply
If you are a gifted learner or are teaching any gifted learners like Jarom, you can now apply for the 2023 Awards for Gifted Learners — gifted.tki.org.nz(external link).
Teachers, gifted students or their parents can apply for the awards to support their learning and enable them to pursue their passion. Gifted learners in early learning up to school leaving age can apply for these awards, which can provide up to $2,500 to a student or up to $5,000 to a group of students. Applications close on 9 October.
Types of awards available for teachers
Early learning, primary or secondary school teachers
The Awards for Teachers of Gifted Learners are for teachers currently working in early learning, primary or secondary schools in Aotearoa New Zealand. Funding of up to $2,500 can be awarded to an individual teacher or up to $6,000 to a group of teachers, to support them in enhancing their skills so they can better support gifted learners.
Applications open on 2 October and close on 5 November.
Awards for Teachers of Gifted Learners — gifted.tki.org.nz(external link)
Massey University Postgraduate Diploma
Study awards are available to support teachers undertaking the Massey University Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching (Gifted Education). Applications are now open and close on 12 September.
For queries about any of these awards, email gifted.enquiries@education.govt.nz.
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