Our year together
An end of year reflection for classes to do together looking back on the year that's been
Firstly, the science...
Taking time to look back together helps tamariki see how far they’ve come - not just in what they’ve learned, but in how they’ve grown as friends and teammates. When they share moments of kindness, laughter, and teamwork, they’re reminded that their effort and care for one another made this class what it is. These reflections build pride, belonging, and the quiet confidence that they can take those same strengths into whatever comes next.
Why this activity?
As the year ends, it’s a special time to pause and notice what we’ve shared - the challenges, the laughter, the learning, and how we’ve grown together. This reflection helps tamariki recognise the strength of their connections and the sense of belonging they’ve built. When they feel safe and supported here, they’re more likely to carry that same confidence and kindness into new spaces next year.
You'll need
Your amazing tamariki!
What to do
You can use these prompts during class discussion or circle time and get really clear about there final few weeks together and how well they've done, and how hard they've worked to create this special space and 'team'.
Setting the tone
Start by inviting everyone to take a deep breath and think back over the year.
You might say:
“We’ve been through a whole year together - learning, laughing, and supporting each other. Let’s look back at some of the moments that made this class what it is
Encourage tamariki to share kōrero, draw, or write responses.
Reflective prompts to support this:
Looking back
What’s something you’re proud of this year?
What made you laugh the most?
When did our class show kindness or teamwork?
What’s a challenge we worked through together - and what did we learn from it?
Who helped you feel like you belong here?
Looking around
What makes our class special?
How do we show manaakitanga (care) for each other?
What do we do that helps everyone feel safe and included?
Looking ahead
What will you take with you from this class into next year?
How can we keep being good friends and kind people wherever we go?
What hopes do you have for next year — for yourself and for others?
Bringing it together
You might end with a shared activity or gesture:
A class mural or collage titled “Our year together” with photos, drawings, or quotes.
Each ākonga writes one sentence on a paper leaf or star - “Something I’ll remember from this class…” — and these are displayed as a collective artwork.
A short performance, poem, or song at assembly celebrating connection and growth.
Remind tamariki:
Friendship, belonging, and courage don’t end with the school year. The way we’ve cared for each other here will help us build new friendships and communities next year.
Whānau engagement
Encourage tamariki to share their reflections with whānau or if you create a visual display invite whānau in to see this.
And to add to this...
We love the idea of continuing these reflections with Dialling up our strengths which is designed to support tamariki in recognising their own strengths using the VIA Strengths framework and then Strengths spotting which creates an opotunity to spot the strengths of their classmates, an awesome way to show how they've gotten to know each other throughout the year.
Curriculum links
Personal Health and physical development: A1 - Personal growth and development
Personal Health and physical development: A4 - Personal identity