Fun With Numbers: Helping New Immigrant Children Thrive in Mathematics

In an enriching after-school program at Knighton Normal School, children are learning mathematics through play, fostering not only academic skills but also social integration. "Fun With Numbers," organized by Mathematics for a Lifetime, provides a supportive environment for new immigrants, helping them navigate their educational journey in New Zealand.

The classroom buzzes with energy as students engage in various games designed to teach mathematical concepts in a fun way. Six-year-old Emmanuel, who recently migrated from India, begins to open up as he plays with dominoes alongside his sister Hannah, while supportive tutors guide him and his peers through the learning process.

Bridging Cultural Gaps Through Education

Held every Thursday at 4 pm, the "Fun With Numbers" program welcomes students who are new to New Zealand. With a diverse population of approximately 730 pupils, Knighton Normal School is a melting pot of cultures, with one-third of students hailing from various countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

Diane Cooper, the English Language Learning (ELL) center team leader at Knighton, explains the unique challenges these children face: "For some, the simple act of sharing or relinquishing an item can provoke heightened behavior. Having something of one’s own is precious when you have been robbed of everything." Parents like Abdi, who fled civil war in Somalia, express their hopes for their children to assimilate quickly, underscoring the program’s importance in breaking down language barriers through engaging learning.

The Importance of Language and Social Cohesion

Knighton Normal School prides itself on its robust ELL program, where most immigrant students achieve fluency in English within a year. Principal Andrew Campbell emphasizes the significance of social cohesion, noting that "tolerance of difference, including cultural and religious diversity, is essential to ensure all children are safe." The school implements strict anti-bullying policies, which include actively managing any incidents of discrimination based on race.

To promote cultural understanding, Knighton organizes various community-focused events, such as cultural festivals and language weeks, engaging both students and parents alike. “The result is transformational; mostly, what you see walking around the playground is children playing happily,” Cooper affirms.

Addressing Miscommunication and Cultural Differences

Occasionally, cultural misunderstandings arise within the community, as demonstrated during Pride Week. Misinformation regarding the event led some parents to consider withdrawing their children from the school. Cooper and the administration took proactive measures to clarify the school’s stance on inclusivity and acceptance.

Furthermore, Knighton recognizes that cultural norms differ regarding behavior and expectations. For instance, the school has adapted its swimming classes to include separate sessions for Muslim girls, thereby acknowledging diversity while promoting inclusion.

A Supportive Environment for Educators and Families

Knighton Normal School accommodates families by conducting workshops to educate migrant parents about the New Zealand education system. Following the tragic Christchurch mosque attacks, the Ministry of Education established Learning Community Hubs, and Knighton has hosted 15 sessions to educate parents on various topics, including te Tiriti o Waitangi. Campbell values these initiatives, stating, "There is so much good that goes on here."

The school’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its student population is reflected in its hiring practices. Teachers with high emotional intelligence are chosen for their ability to adapt teaching methods to meet the varied backgrounds of students. Principal Campbell, himself a seasoned educator with international experience, is actively learning te reo Maori to bridge relationships with Maori families—40% of Knighton’s students.

Challenges Ahead in Educational Reforms

Looking to the future, Campbell expresses concerns regarding upcoming educational policies from the Ministry of Education. New curricula and absenteeism regulations, which threaten prosecution for parents with children absent for 15 days, could hinder the school’s ability to cater to its diverse student population. Many families, like those of international migrants, prioritize visiting relatives in their home countries and may be negatively impacted by this policy.

As Knighton Normal School adapts to rapid demographic changes and educational reforms, the value of programs like "Fun With Numbers" become increasingly clear. With its focus on learning through enjoyment, the program has made a notable impression on students and families alike. Medinah Fagbemi, a parent from Nigeria with children in the program, enthusiastically notes, "They are always asking when the maths class is on."

Making a Difference Through Engaged Learning

Back in the classroom, Emmanuel’s confidence grows as he successfully connects the dominoes. With supportive tutors like Laura, who fosters a welcoming atmosphere for learning, students are not just acquiring mathematical skills but finding joy in education. The program is funded for only 12 students, yet draws in 18 today, illustrating the high demand and community interest.

As Hamilton City Council and Mathematics for a Lifetime consider the future of this program, its success stories underscore the importance of supporting immigrant children through positive learning experiences.

The ongoing commitment from Knighton Normal School, emphasizing both academic and social integration, illustrates a potential blueprint for communities across New Zealand.

By encouraging dialogue and understanding within the school environment, the hope is to create lasting relationships that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring every child feels valued and safe.

For further information about the school and programs, please visit Knighton Normal School or explore opportunities at Mathematics for a Lifetime.

Venetia Sherson is a Waikato journalist dedicated to community-focused storytelling.

Photo Credits:

• Children take part in the Fun With Numbers programme.

   

• Diane Cooper, the English Language Learning centre at Knighton.

   

• Children learn maths through card games and puzzles.

   

• Knighton Normal School principal Andrew Campbell.

   

• Mothers gather in the room next to the classroom.

   

• Tutor Laura helps a pupil with her origami.

   

We would love to hear your thoughts on how schools can better support immigrant children. Share your experiences in the comments or connect with us on social media to discuss!